
Tread/walk a tightrope
Visual Imagery
Imagine the caution needed to balance on a high tightrope to grasp this phrase's careful connotations.
She had to tread a tightrope when discussing the issue with her boss.
Not Literal
Remember, 'walking a tightrope' is figurative; it's about handling sensitive situations, not real acrobatics.
Navigating the merger, the CEO walked a tightrope.
Emotionally Charged
This phrase suggests stress and risk without mentioning them directly.
In negotiating with both sides, he treads a tightrope.