Definitions by LeCircumflex

Chekhov's footgun

An obvious bad decision made early on, noticed but ignored, that remains harmless for a significant period of time and inevitably causes damage when the decision is invoked.

"I'll just duct tape it, just a temporary fix. I'll do it properly later."
"That's Chekhov's footgun waiting to fire. Do it properly right now."

Chekhov's footgun by LeCircumflex February 2, 2026