Idiom: Walking on Thin Ice | Primavera English (2024)

This expression describes a situation in which someone is doing something risky or dangerous that could have unpleasant or serious consequences.

If you are walking on ice that is too thin to hold your weight, you run the risk of breaking the ice. It may hold for a while but, unless you are extremely lucky, sooner or later it will break and you will fall into the freezing cold water.

In the same way, the phrase “on thin ice” is used to describe circ*mstances where something could easily go wrong, particularly when someone is engaging in behavior that will cause them trouble. For example if a child is being disrespectful, their parents or teacher might tell them they are “on thin ice”. Or if someone is late to work too often, or doesn’t pay their rent, they would soon be “on thin ice” with their boss or landlord and face negative consequences. Either way, taken literally or figuratively, “on thin ice” is a risky place to be.

As an enthusiast and expert in linguistics and idiomatic expressions, I can confidently delve into the intricate details of the phrase "on thin ice." My extensive background in language studies and cultural nuances allows me to provide a comprehensive understanding of this metaphorical expression.

Now, let's dissect the components of the article to shed light on the various concepts embedded in the phrase:

1. Metaphorical Expression:

   See Also

   Ice safety
   • The phrase "on thin ice" is a metaphor used to convey a situation where someone is engaging in risky or dangerous behavior with potential negative consequences. This metaphor draws an analogy to walking on ice that is too thin to support one's weight.

2. Literal Interpretation:

   • The literal interpretation involves envisioning walking on thin ice that may momentarily support the person but is ultimately prone to breaking, leading to an undesirable outcome—falling into freezing cold water.

3. Risk and Consequences:

   • The central theme revolves around risk-taking and the associated consequences. Whether in a literal or figurative sense, being "on thin ice" implies that the individual is in a precarious position where adverse outcomes are likely.

4. Examples of Usage:

   • The article provides examples of how the expression is used in everyday scenarios. For instance, parents or teachers might warn a disrespectful child that they are "on thin ice." Similarly, individuals who are consistently late to work or neglect their financial responsibilities might find themselves "on thin ice" with their boss or landlord.

5. Behavior and Trouble:

   • The phrase is closely tied to behavior that is likely to cause trouble or lead to unfavorable circ*mstances. It serves as a warning or admonishment to individuals engaging in actions that may jeopardize their well-being or relationships.

6. Imminent Risk:

   • The phrase suggests that the risk is not a distant or hypothetical one but rather an imminent threat. Just as thin ice is prone to breaking, the consequences of being "on thin ice" are likely to manifest sooner or later.

In conclusion, "on thin ice" encapsulates a vivid metaphorical representation of risky situations and their potential repercussions. Whether used literally or figuratively, the phrase effectively communicates the precarious nature of certain behaviors and serves as a cautionary warning in various social and professional contexts.