on thin ice: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘on thin ice’ mean?
"On thin ice" is an idiom that means being in a risky or dangerous situation, where one's actions may lead to negative consequences or trouble.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "skate on thin ice" means to be in a risky or dangerous situation where the slightest mistake or wrong move could have serious consequences or lead to trouble.
An idiom meaning to be in a difficult or challenging situation that needs to be resolved or fixed. It implies being in a state of trouble or inconvenience.
The idiom "out cold" means to be unconscious, usually from a blow to the head or excessive fatigue. It implies a complete loss of consciousness and the inability to respond or awaken.
The idiom "on the toss of a coin" means making a decision or taking a chance based solely on the outcome of a coin toss.
The idiom "on-the-spot" means to be in a situation where decisions or actions must be made immediately, without any time to prepare or think about it.
The idiom "on the skids" refers to a situation or person that is in decline or deteriorating. It can describe something or someone facing a loss of reputation, success, or stability.
The idiom "on the skids" is commonly used in the English language to indicate a decline or deterioration in someone's or something's circumstances. It suggests a downward spiral towards failure or ruin.
The idiom "on the ropes" means being in a difficult or vulnerable position, usually in a competition or struggle.
The idiom "on the ropes" has several meanings and origins that can be traced back to its usage in boxing.
Idiom: *on the point of*
Meaning: About to do something or reach a particular state or condition.
The idiom "on the cards" means that something is likely or probable to happen in the future.
Delicate Ground
The idiom "on thin ice" is a metaphorical phrase used to describe a precarious or risky situation. It originated from the literal meaning of walking on thin ice, which is a dangerous activity as the ice may crack and cause someone to fall into freezing water. People often use this idiom to warn others that they are in a precarious position and should be cautious to avoid negative consequences.
For example, imagine a person who is engaging in risky behavior. They are "skating on thin ice," pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable and risking negative outcomes. This idiom serves as a figurative reminder for individuals to proceed with caution, avoiding hasty or thoughtless actions. It emphasizes the delicate nature and risks involved in the given circumstance.
The idiom "on thin ice" is frequently used in informal spoken language but can also be found in written texts such as literature, news articles, and opinion pieces. Its usage highlights its relevance in modern American English, resonating with individuals of various backgrounds. It taps into universal experiences of danger, uncertainty, and the need for caution.
While the idiom provides a clear warning, it also leaves room for interpretation and exploration of the specific risks and potential outcomes in a given situation. It does not provide specific details about the nature of the risks or the exact consequences. It is a concise and versatile expression that allows for understanding within the context of the conversation or situation at hand.
Another related idiom is "on ice," which refers to something being put on hold or delayed for a later occasion. This phrase is often used in a professional or organizational context. For example, if a project is not currently being worked on, it may be "on ice" until resources or time become available.
Similarly, the idiom "on the line" is used to describe a situation where something of value is at risk or in jeopardy. It suggests that there are potential consequences or outcomes that could have a significant impact. For instance, if a person's job is "on the line," it means that their employment is in danger and they need to be careful to avoid negative outcomes.
Ultimately, the idiomatic expression "on thin ice" captures the essence of precariousness, urging individuals to tread carefully and be mindful of potential consequences. Its metaphorical power and ubiquity in daily discourse strengthen its status as a valuable linguistic tool, allowing individuals to vividly convey caution and warn others about potentially risky circumstances.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom on thin ice can be used in a sentence:
- He knew he was on thin ice with his boss after making that mistake.
- The team is on thin ice with their coach after losing three games in a row.
- She felt like she was on thin ice when she was asked to present to the board without much preparation.
More "Metaphorical" idioms
