The metaphorical phrase 'elephant in the room' is a relatable expression that refers to an obvious problem or issue of discomfort that people avoid discussing. It's a funny expression, because I rarely see a real elephant in a room, other than in my dreams.

The expression can trigger emotions between parties.

Article:

The phrase' elephant in the room' has a rich history, dating back to 1814 when Ivan Krylov wrote a Russian fable. In 'The Inquisitive Man,' a man notices small animals in a museum but misses a giant elephant, a message that has resonated through the centuries.

There are many known references to using this phrase in articles for publication in the USA.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elephant_in_the_room

Even literary giants like Mark Twain have used the phrase. In his story 'The Stolen White Elephant,' published in 1882, the detectives focus on the wrong details and miss the obvious solution right in front of them, a spinoff version of 'elephant in the room.'

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Stolen_White_Elephant

Examples:

When my girlfriend talks to me about sensitive stuff, she dances around the periphery, but rarely notices the elephant in the room.

My boss is all about compliance and woke ideology, without even noticing the elephant in the room.

My boss is about processes rather than results, like any good bureaucrat, but she rarely notices the elephant in the room.

I am sure you could add a few examples when referring to friends and family. It's all in fun, and not a serious indictment against anyone.