The idiom "walk a tightrope" draws its origin from the world of circus performance, where acrobats and tightrope walkers demonstrate their remarkable balance and skill by walking on a thin, elevated rope. Figuratively, it is often used to describe the delicate art of maintaining a balance between two opposing or challenging forces.

What is the origin of the idiom "walk a tightrope" and when to use it?

to [walk|tread] a tightrope

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The idiom "a roll of the dice" has its origins in the world of gambling, particularly games involving dice, where the outcome is uncertain and relies on chance. It is used figuratively to describe a situation where the outcome is unpredictable, random, or subject to luck and fate.

What is the origin of the idiom "a roll of the dice" and when to use it?

a roll of the dice

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The idiom "house of cards" originates from the construction of fragile and unstable structures made from playing cards. It is often used to describe a situation, plan, or system that is very delicate, unstable, and easily subject to collapse or failure. When used, it implies that the situation or structure is built on a weak foundation and may crumble if exposed to even minor disturbances or challenges.

What is the origin of the idiom "house of cards" and when to use it?

house of cards

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The idiom "thrills and spills" likely originates from the world of sports and entertainment, particularly in the context of activities that involve excitement, risk, and the potential for unexpected outcomes. It is often used to describe experiences or situations filled with both exciting and challenging elements, where one can encounter thrilling or exhilarating moments as well as difficulties, setbacks, or potentially dangerous situations.

What is the origin of the idiom "thrills and spills" and when to use it?

thrills and (spills|chills)

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The origin of the idiom "dangerous ground" is not attributed to a specific historical event or source. Instead, it has likely evolved over time as a figurative expression to describe situations or areas that pose risks, challenges, or potential difficulties.  It is used to describe a situation or topic that is fraught with risks, potential problems, or controversy. When you use this idiom, you are highlighting that the situation in question may lead to difficulties, conflict, or negative consequences. It's typically employed to advise caution or to acknowledge that one is treading into a potentially problematic area.

What is the origin of the idiom "dangerous ground" and when to use it?

dangerous (ground|territory)

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The idiom "hang by a thread" has its origins in the image of something being so delicately or precariously suspended that it is held in place only by a single thread or hair. Figuratively, it is used to describe a situation, object, or person that is in an extremely precarious and vulnerable state, where the slightest disturbance or challenge could lead to a catastrophic outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "hang by a thread" and when to use it?

to [hang] by a (thread|hair)

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The origin of the idiom "in the fast lane" in the sense of describing a lifestyle full of excitement and adventure is not specifically documented. It is a figurative expression that likely developed over time, drawing from the idea of speed, high-energy living, and the thrill of adventure. It is often used to describe a lifestyle or situation that involves excitement, adventure, and sometimes danger.

What is the origin of the idiom "in the fast lane" and when to use it?

in the fast lane

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The idiom "touch and go" has maritime origins, dating back to the early days of sailing. It referred to a situation where a ship's keel barely touched the sea bottom, allowing it to continue its voyage without running aground. The "touch" referred to this brief contact with the seabed, and "go" indicated that the ship could continue its journey. This idiomatic expression is used to describe a situation that is precarious, uncertain, or risky, often implying that the outcome is unpredictable and could swing in either direction.

What is the origin of the idiom "touch and go" and when to use it?

touch and go

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The idiom "on a razor's edge" draws upon the imagery of a razor blade's extremely thin and sharp edge. It is used figuratively to describe a situation where someone or something is in an exceptionally precarious and delicate state, with the slightest misstep or change likely to lead to a crisis or failure.

What is the origin of the idiom "on a razor's edge" and when to use it?

on a razor's edge

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The idiom "on a knife-edge" draws its imagery from the sharp, thin edge of a knife, symbolizing a situation where something is in an extremely precarious and finely balanced state. Figuratively, it is used to describe a situation that is teetering on the brink of a major change, crisis, or critical decision, with the outcome uncertain and dependent on a delicate balance.

What is the origin of the idiom "on a knife-edge" and when to use it?

on a knife-edge

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The term "bear garden" has its origins in the 16th and 17th centuries and refers to a place where bears were kept for public entertainment and blood sports. In such a setting, it was chaotic, unruly, and often dangerous. This expression is now used to describe any place or situation characterized by disorder, uproar, confusion, or rowdy behavior.

What is the origin of the idiom "bear garden" and when to use it?

bear garden

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The phrase "lie in wait" is an idiom that means to secretly wait for the right time to catch or attack an enemy, prey, or target. The origin of this phrase is rooted in the idea of predators or hunters lying hidden and still, ready to seize their moment to strike.

What is the origin of the idiom "lie in wait" and when to use it?

to [lie] in wait

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The idiom "leap of faith" was popularized by the philosopher Søren Kierkegaard in the 19th century, but its origins can be traced to religious and philosophical discussions on the idea of taking a step into the unknown, often associated with religious beliefs and trust in a higher power. This expression is used to describe a situation where someone makes a decision or takes an action despite a lack of concrete evidence or absolute certainty.

What is the origin of the idiom "leap of faith" and when to use it?

leap of faith

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The origin of the idiom "lay someone or something on the line" is not well-documented, but it likely comes from the imagery of someone placing something of value or importance on a line or the line of risk, symbolizing a commitment or sacrifice in a situation. The phrase is used figuratively to describe an act of risking or sacrificing something significant for a particular goal or principle.

What is the origin of the idiom "lay someone or something on the line" and when to use it?

to [lay] {sth} on the line

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The idiom "run the risk of something" has its origins in the concept of risk-taking and potential consequences. It is used to describe the act of exposing oneself to the possibility of negative outcomes or dangers, usually due to a particular action or decision.

What is the origin of the idiom "run the risk of something" and when to use it?

to [run] the risk of {sth}

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The idiom "in harm's way" has been used since the 17th century to describe a situation where someone or something is exposed to potential danger or risk, often as a result of their location or actions. It originally referred to ships and their crews being in a position where they could come under enemy fire or face hazardous conditions. Over time, the phrase has evolved to cover any scenario where individuals or things are vulnerable to harm.

What is the origin of the idiom "in harm's way" and when to use it?

in harm's way

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The idiom "swim with sharks" draws upon the imagery of entering the same territory as sharks, known for their predatory nature and potential danger. It is used figuratively to describe a situation where someone is engaging in an activity or taking on a role that involves risks, challenges, or dealing with powerful and potentially hostile individuals or entities.

What is the origin of the idiom "swim with sharks" and when to use it?

to [swim] with sharks

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on thin ice

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on a knife's edge

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the stakes are high

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to [raise] the stakes

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the idiom "spell disaster" has originated from the figurative use of "spell" as a verb meaning to signify or foretell, the phrase "spell disaster" is a metaphorical expression indicating that something is likely to result in a catastrophe, misfortune, or failure. It is used to convey the idea that a particular situation or action will have dire consequences. Commonly used in both casual and formal contexts, it serves as a warning or a prediction of impending trouble, emphasizing the severity of the potential outcome.

What is the origin of the idiom "spell disaster" and when to use it?

to [spell] disaster

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Explore English idioms that relate to posing a risk with examples like "a roll of the dice" and "swim with sharks".

Een risico vormen

Engelse uitdrukkingen voor ‘een risico vormen’

Posing a Risk

English Idioms for "Posing a Risk"