THIN ICE Meaning and
Definition
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Thin ice refers to a perilous situation where someone is treading upon a frozen surface that is weak and susceptible to cracking, breaking, or collapsing, leading to potential danger or disaster. Metaphorically, it is also used to describe a precarious or delicate situation where one's actions or decisions can potentially lead to unfavourable or risky consequences.
Literally, the term thin ice pertains to an icy surface that has insufficient thickness or strength to bear the weight of a person or object. It typically occurs on bodies of water such as lakes, ponds, or rivers during winter when temperatures drop below freezing. Walking or venturing onto thin ice poses a significant risk as it can break under the individual's weight, leading to them falling through and potentially drowning or injuring themselves.
Figuratively, thin ice illustrates a precarious state of affairs, wherein an individual finds themselves in a vulnerable and sensitive situation. It suggests that one should be cautious, as any wrong move or misstep may result in unfavorable consequences or backlash. This could refer to various scenarios such as fragile relationships, delicate negotiations, or intense competitions where the slightest misunderstanding, mistake, or error can have detrimental outcomes.
In summary, thin ice is both a literal and metaphorical term that signifies a fragile and risky situation. Whether referring to the physical danger of a freezing surface or the precariousness of delicate circumstances, the phrase emphasizes the need for caution, prudence, and careful decision-making to avoid potential harm or adverse effects.
Common Misspellings for THIN ICE
- rhin ice
- fhin ice
- ghin ice
- yhin ice
- 6hin ice
- 5hin ice
- tgin ice
- tbin ice
- tnin ice
- tjin ice
- tuin ice
- tyin ice
- thun ice
- thjn ice
- thkn ice
- thon ice
- th9n ice
- th8n ice
- thib ice
- thim ice
Etymology of THIN ICE
The word "thin ice" is a figurative expression, meaning a precarious or risky situation. It originates from ice-skating and the literal sense of skating on thin ice, which is highly dangerous as the thin ice could crack under the person's weight, causing them to fall into the freezing water below.
The term "thin ice" as a metaphor appeared in the English language around the early 18th century. Its exact origin is uncertain, but it has been in use for several centuries. The concept of thin ice being perilous and requiring caution became a popular metaphor, reflecting situations in life where one must tread carefully to avoid negative consequences or danger.
Idioms with the word THIN ICE
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skate on thin ice
The idiom "skate on thin ice" means to be in a risky or dangerous situation, often with potential consequences or negative outcomes. It implies that someone is treading carefully, pushing the limits, or engaging in behavior that could lead to trouble or failure.
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on thin ice
The idiom "on thin ice" means to be in a risky or dangerous situation where one false move or mistake could have serious consequences or lead to trouble.
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be (walking) on thin ice
The idiom "be (walking) on thin ice" means to be in a situation where one is taking great risks or doing something that could have serious consequences. It implies being in a precarious or dangerous position similar to walking on thin, fragile ice that could break at any moment.
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walk on thin ice
The idiom "walk on thin ice" means to be in a risky or precarious situation where any action or decision could have serious or negative consequences.
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be (skating/walking) on thin ice
The idiom "be (skating/walking) on thin ice" means to be in a risky or precarious situation where one wrong move or action could have serious consequences or lead to trouble. It implies that someone is treading carefully in a delicate or dangerous situation and must be cautious to avoid making mistakes.
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be skating on thin ice
The idiom "be skating on thin ice" means to be in a risky or dangerous situation where one's actions or decisions could easily lead to trouble or negative consequences. It implies that one is treading carefully or flirting with disaster, much like walking or skating on thin ice, which can easily crack or break.
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be on thin ice
The idiom "be on thin ice" means to be in a precarious or risky situation where any wrong move or mistake can have serious consequences. It suggests a state of vulnerability or being at the brink of trouble.
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