Idiom
on thin ice
Meanings
In a risky situation where a small mistake could lead to trouble or failure.
In a fragile relationship or position where others are close to losing patience or trust.
Definition
In a risky or delicate situation where you could easily get into trouble.
If you are on thin ice, you are in a situation where one more mistake could cause serious problems. It often describes relationships, jobs, or rules where patience is running out. It suggests danger or insecurity, like standing on ice that could break at any moment.
Examples
- After missing two deadlines, he knew he was on thin ice with his boss.
- You're on thin ice if you keep arriving late.
- She felt on thin ice with her parents after the lie.
- The company is on thin ice financially this quarter.
More at B2 level
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- touch base To touch base means to briefly contact someone to share a quick update or confirm plans.
- ballpark figure A ballpark figure is an approximate number or estimate, not an exact one.
- take the mickey To take the mickey means to tease someone or make fun of them in a not-too-serious way.
- cheap as chips Very cheap; costing very little money.
More idioms
- Bob's your uncle Used to say that something will be easy or will happen exactly as expected after a simple step.
- close but no cigar Used to say someone almost succeeded but did not quite achieve the goal.
- down to the wire If something goes down to the wire, it is decided at the very last moment before the deadline or fi…
- lost the plot To become confused or unreasonable and no longer understand what is happening or what matters.
- ducks in a row To have everything organized and ready in the correct order.