What is elephant in the room?

The phrase "elephant in the room" is a metaphorical idiom used to describe an obvious problem or issue that people are avoiding or ignoring. It's akin to having a large, conspicuous elephant standing in the middle of a room while everyone pretends it isn't there, often due to the topic being uncomfortable, embarrassing, or controversial.

The phrase is typically used in contexts where there is a significant issue that needs to be addressed, but for various reasons—such as politeness, fear of conflict, or social taboos—people choose not to acknowledge it openly. It can apply to personal, social, or professional situations where there is a shared, unspoken understanding that something important is being neglected.

In communication, addressing the "elephant in the room" typically implies courage and honesty, as it involves bringing up a topic that others might prefer to avoid. The phrase is widely understood in English-speaking cultures and is often used in discussions, articles, and speeches to highlight the need for open discourse about challenging topics.