Walk/tread a fine/thin line
phrase
To be in a situation where one action or mistake could cause a problem or failure.
She's walking a fine line by not turning in her homework on time. If she continues, she may fail the class.
Often appears as...
- walk a fine line between
- tread a thin line
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To behave cautiously between two extreme situations or conditions.
The government must tread a fine line between helping the poor and encouraging dependency.
Often appears as...
- walk a fine line between
- walk a thin line
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To be careful about the way you behave or talk about something sensitive or controversial so as not to offend or upset anyone.
The principal had to tread a thin line when discussing the new policy changes with parents.
Often appears as...
- walk a fine line between
- tread on eggshells
Usage tips
Neutral
Idiomatic
phrase
To be in a situation where one action or mistake could cause a problem or failure.
She's walking a fine line by not turning in her homework on time. If she continues, she may fail the class.
Often appears as...
- walk a fine line between
- tread a thin line
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To behave cautiously between two extreme situations or conditions.
The government must tread a fine line between helping the poor and encouraging dependency.
Often appears as...
- walk a fine line between
- walk a thin line
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To be careful about the way you behave or talk about something sensitive or controversial so as not to offend or upset anyone.
The principal had to tread a thin line when discussing the new policy changes with parents.
Often appears as...
- walk a fine line between
- tread on eggshells
Usage tips
Neutral
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Consequence Awareness
Understand that this phrase implies potential negative outcomes of ones' actions or decisions.
He treads a fine line by arriving late so often; one more time and he might get fired.
Pro Tip 2/3Implied Risk
Recognize that the situation involves a risk, which requires careful and balanced actions.
She walks a fine line by investing heavily in an unstable market.
Pro Tip 3/3Subtle Tension
The phrase can express a subtle tense situation where balance is critical.
During the negotiations, he walked a fine line to keep both parties satisfied.
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