Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

on-the-bubble

idiom

ˈɒn ðə ˈbʌb.əl

Definition

Referring to a situation where something is uncertain, particularly in relation to being close to a threshold, often used for candidates who might barely make a cutoff.

Examples

After the final auditions, she felt she was on-the-bubble for the part in the play.
The team is on-the-bubble for making it into the playoffs this year.
He’s been on-the-bubble at work, hoping to get that promotion before the deadline.

Meaning

The phrase ‘on-the-bubble’ typically describes individuals or entities that are nearly meeting criteria but are not guaranteed success. It implies a state of being on the verge of acceptance or inclusion, often in competitive contexts like sports or job applications.