kick the can down the road

/kˈɪk ðə kan dˌaʊn ðə ɹˈəʊd/

/kˈɪk ðə kæn dˌaʊn ðə ɹˈoʊd/

[phrase]

to kick the can down the road

[PHRASE]

to keep postponing problems one must deal with

What is the origin of the idiom "kick the can down the road" and when to use it?

The idiom "kick the can down the road" is believed to have originated in the United States during the mid-20th century. It draws its metaphorical meaning from the children's game of kicking a can along a road, which was a common pastime in many neighborhoods. The game involved players taking turns kicking a can and trying to keep it moving without it being caught by others.

Examples

1. Let's not kick the can down the road on this issue, we need to make a decision now.

2. If we continue to kick the can down the road on this problem, it will only get worse in the long run.

3. The previous administration kicked the can down the road on climate change, and now we're facing the consequences.

4. - But I think really, 'cause when you kick the can down the road and you go not now, you know if you're going to be into someone.