To leak a lot
Cambridge Dictionary
When someone says “leaking like a sieve”, they mean that something is leaking or losing information, resources or secrets very easily or in a large amount.
The metaphor compares the leaking thing to a sieve, a tool used to strain liquids or solids, that has many small holes or spaces that allow the contents to escape or pass through.
“Leak like a sieve” is an idiomatic expression that means something is losing or revealing information at an alarming or uncontrolled rate. The metaphor refers to a sieve, which is a device used for separating solids from liquids, typically with many small holes or pores, implying that the information is escaping or leaking easily.
In a broader context, the phrase “leak like a sieve” can be applied to various situations beyond information leakage, indicating a lack of containment, security, or control. For example:
Information Security:
- Refers to a system, organization, or process that has significant vulnerabilities, allowing confidential or sensitive information to be easily accessed or disclosed.
Confidentiality Issues:
- Describes a situation where private or sensitive information is being exposed or shared unintentionally or without appropriate controls.
Financial Management:
- Indicates a situation where there is poor control over financial transactions, resulting in money or resources being wasted, lost, or misused.
Data Privacy:
- Implies a lack of protection or control over personal data, leading to potential breaches or unauthorized access.
Lack of Control or Oversight:
- Can refer to any situation where there is a significant lack of control, management, or oversight, allowing unwanted actions or outcomes to occur without restraint.
The phrase is used to highlight a problem or weakness in a dramatic or exaggerated manner, emphasizing the urgent need for better management, security, or control to prevent further issues or losses.
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