Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hang-in-the-balance

idiom

hæŋ ɪn ðə ˈbæl.əns

Definition

To be in a situation where the outcome is uncertain or dependent on future events.

Examples

The fate of the project hangs in the balance due to the lack of funding.
Her career was hanging in the balance after the recent performance review.
With the weather being so unpredictable, our plans for the picnic are hanging in the balance.

Meaning

When something is said to hang in the balance, it indicates that its future or final result is undetermined and at risk of changing based on various factors.