A slippery slope.

Translation language

Meaning

A course of action that seems to lead inevitably to a negative outcome.

John: 'Relaxing these rules could be a slippery slope to complete chaos.'

Alice: 'I agree, we need to be cautious about unintended consequences.'

John: 'That's a valid concern; we need to consider all aspects carefully.'

Alice: 'Lowering the drinking age could be a slippery slope towards increased alcohol abuse.'