Is 'skate on thin ice' formal or informal?

It is neutral and works in speech or writing. It is common in news, business, and everyday English.

What is the difference between 'on thin ice' and 'in danger'?

'On thin ice' suggests a risky situation that can worsen quickly. 'In danger' is broader and more direct.

Can I use this idiom for relationships or work?

Yes. People use it for work, relationships, money, and other fragile situations.

← Dictionary

to-skate-on-thin-ice

/tə skeɪt ɒn θɪn aɪs/

IELTSAcademic

idiom

To be in a risky situation where one wrong move can cause trouble or failure. It often suggests hidden danger, not just ordinary risk.

He is skating on thin ice with his boss.
You are skating on thin ice if you keep lying.
The company is on thin ice financially.

Adinary Nuance

Use skate on thin ice when the danger is serious and one mistake could cause a problem. It is stronger than take a risk or be careful. Writers choose it when they want to warn about fragile, unsafe, or tense situations.

In other languages

Vietnamese: đi trên băng mỏng
Spanish: pisar en falso
Chinese: 如履薄冰
Japanese: 危うい立場
Korean: 위태로운 상황

Etymology

This phrase comes from the image of ice that may break under a person. It became common in English in the 19th century as a metaphor for danger.

Common phrases

skating on thin iceon thin icebe on thin ice

Synonyms

be in danger take a risk be in trouble

Related words

risk danger warning caution

Frequently asked questions

Is 'skate on thin ice' formal or informal?: It is neutral and works in speech or writing. It is common in news, business, and everyday English.
What is the difference between 'on thin ice' and 'in danger'?: 'On thin ice' suggests a risky situation that can worsen quickly. 'In danger' is broader and more direct.
Can I use this idiom for relationships or work?: Yes. People use it for work, relationships, money, and other fragile situations.