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on a knife-edge
01
in a very dangerous or difficult situation in which a small change can lead to a failure
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "on a knife-edge" and when to use it?
The idiom "on a knife-edge" draws its imagery from the sharp, thin edge of a knife, symbolizing a situation where something is in an extremely precarious and finely balanced state. Figuratively, it is used to describe a situation that is teetering on the brink of a major change, crisis, or critical decision, with the outcome uncertain and dependent on a delicate balance.
Example
The fragile political stability in the region remained on a knife-edge, as any incident could lead to conflict.
After the unexpected turn of events, the company's financial stability was on a knife-edge, and a strategic decision had to be made quickly.
The negotiations for the peace treaty were on a knife-edge, with world leaders hoping for a breakthrough.
Their relationship was on a knife-edge, with unresolved issues that could make or break their future together.
