The Blurred Lines of War: What "Small Potatoes" Really Means The phrase "small potatoes" is often used to downplay something's significance or impact.
But when it comes from the mouth of a sitting President, it takes on a more sinister tone.
Last week, Donald Trump referred to the ongoing conflict with Iran as "small potatoes," implying that the situation is contained and not worthy of further attention. This assessment is far from accurate.