"that's a fine/pretty kettle of fish!"

Question

Hi all,

How can I translate into Spanish the expression "that's a fine or that's a pretty kettle of fish!" meaning a troublesome situation or an awkward state of affairs; a vexing problem.

Thanks,

Carole

Answer 1

You might try: Es un lío/embrollo total - It's a complete and utter mess

I think that this might approximate the meaning pretty closely

According to the DRAE, the word embrollo is defined as follows:

Situación embarazosa, conflicto del cual no se sabe cómo salir (an awkward or embarrasing situation; a sticky situation from which one doesn't know how to get out of)

Yes, I think too. Thank you :-) - CaroleAR, Nov 22, 2010

Answer 2

"¡Vaya, una lata!" / "¡Vaya, un lío!", perhaps.

Answer 3

Hi Carole, under 'More' above you will find our wonderful Phrasebook. Paste your phrase in that and all will be revealed!!

Hi Margaret :-) I just did ... no luck though - There's "that's a different kettle of fish = eso es harina de otro costal" but no "that's a fine/pretty kettle of fish!". Thanks all the same :-) - CaroleAR, Nov 22, 2010

Oh oh, you are right, for yours how about just 'Qué desastre!" or something like that. - margaretbl, Nov 22, 2010