
A mare’s nest
Confusion Overload
 Use 'a mare’s nest' for situations that are extremely confused or disorganized. 
The case file was a mare’s nest, with missing statements and jumbled evidence.
 Not for Formal Use
 'A mare’s nest' is not commonly used in formal contexts. Use it in informal discussions or creative writing. 
When I took over the project, it was a mare’s nest; took me weeks to sort out.
 Archaic Awareness
 Be aware that 'a mare’s nest' is an old-fashioned term, familiar to older English speakers or readers of historical texts. 
Grandpa described his attic as a mare’s nest of antiques and memorabilia.