Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
hang-by-a-thread
idiom
hæŋ baɪ ə θrɛd
Definition
To be in a precarious or unstable situation where any small change could lead to failure or disaster.
Examples
- The company’s future is hanging by a thread after the recent financial losses.
- After missing two deadlines, her job security was hanging by a thread.
- His chances of passing the exam were hanging by a thread, as he hadn’t studied enough.
Meaning
The phrase ‘hang-by-a-thread’ suggests being at the brink of losing something important or being in a risky situation that could collapse at any moment.
Synonyms
- in jeopardy
- on the brink
- in a precarious position
- at risk
