Meaning
In a risky or precarious situation; indicating that actions may lead to negative consequences.
Primary Function
Risk warning
Communicative Purpose
To signal potential trouble, caution, or impending criticism from others.
Pattern
on thin ice
Core Structure
on thin ice
Função primária
Risk warning
Propósito comunicativo
To signal potential trouble, caution, or impending criticism from others.
Situações de gatilho
When someone oversteps limits, violates rules, or behaves recklessly (e.g., missing deadlines, breaking policies).
Contextos
Workplace discipline discussions, personal relationships where behavior is judged as questionable, legal/ethical contexts.
Padrão
on thin ice
Estrutura central
on thin ice
Slots de substituição
none
Colocados típicos
- skating
- treading
- be
- walk
Substituições comuns
- on shaky ground
Erros comuns
Using 'thin water' instead of the correct phrase; mixing with literal meanings.
Similar / contraste
walk a tightrope
Interferências
Avoid translating as literal ‘ice’ (e.g., frozen surface); it conveys metaphorical risk only.
Família do chunk
- Risk idioms
Nuance
Implies imminent negative consequence such as reprimand or loss of trust rather than physical danger.
Efeito pragmático
Warns without directly accusing, preserving politeness while signaling caution needed.
Dica de memória
Skater over cracking ice.
Nota
This idiom is commonly used in professional and personal contexts to indicate that someone's actions are pushing boundaries and may result in serious consequences.
Upgrade path
in a precarious position (formal)
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