Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

to-hang-by-a-thread

idiom
/tə hæŋ baɪ ə θrɛd/
Definition
To be in a precarious situation or at risk of failing.
Examples
  • After the budget cuts, the project’s future is hanging by a thread.
  • His health has been hanging by a thread ever since he got the diagnosis.
  • With only a week left to complete the project, it felt like their plan was hanging by a thread.
Meaning
When something is described as hanging by a thread, it indicates that it is barely stable or is in danger of collapse or failure.
Synonyms
  • on the brink
  • in jeopardy
  • at risk