kettle of fish

kettle of fish  {v. phr.},  {informal}
Something to be considered; how things are; a happening; business.
I thought he needed money, but it was another kettle of fish — his car had disappeared.
- Usually used with "pretty", "fine", "nice", but meaning bad trouble.
He had two flat tires and no spare on a country road at night, which was certainly a pretty kettle of fish.
This is a fine kettle of fish! I forgot my book.
Compare: CUP OF TEA (2).
Categories: {informal} {v. phr.}