1177 Skate on thin ice - English Idioms

Explanation

To be in a risky, dangerous, or precarious situation where one mistake could lead to serious trouble or disaster.
It can also refer to discussing a sensitive topic that could easily cause offense or problems.

Origin

Comes from the literal danger of skating on ice that is too thin to support one's weight.
If the ice breaks, the skater falls into the freezing water, a potentially disastrous outcome.
This clear image of risk translates well to figurative situations involving danger or potential negative consequences.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Be asking for trouble
Be pushing it
Be on thin fucking ice (Vulgar emphasis)
In deep shit (Already in trouble, vs. risking trouble)

Milder/Formal:

Engaging in risky behavior
In a precarious position
Taking an undue risk
Jeopardizing the situation

Situational Appropriateness

Suitable for informal and semi-formal contexts.
The imagery is strong and easily understood.

Misunderstanding Warnings

Entirely figurative; has nothing to do with actual ice skating. Focus on the element of risk and potential negative consequences.

Examples

Asking the boss for another day off when you've already taken so many is skating on thin ice.
By ignoring the warnings, he was skating on thin ice with his health.
Bringing up politics at that family dinner was really skating on thin ice.

Dialogue

Leo: I'm thinking of investing all my savings in this new cryptocurrency.

Mia: Wow, Leo, that sounds like skating on thin ice. It's so volatile.

Leo: You really think it's that risky? Everyone's talking about it.

Mia: Talk is cheap. Losing your savings isn't. Be careful.

Response Patterns

You think so? I didn't realize it was that risky.
Yeah, I know, I need to be careful.
What do you think I should do instead?
Maybe you're right, I should back off.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After warning someone they are skating on thin ice:

One might elaborate on the risks: If you get caught, you could be fired. or That topic really upsets her.

After someone realizes they are skating on thin ice:

They might ask for advice: How can I fix this? or take action to reduce the risk: Okay, I won't bring it up again.

Conversation Starter

No. It's a warning or description of a situation.

Intonation

Stress falls on skating and thin ice. SKATING on THIN ICE.
Often said with a tone of warning or concern.

Generation Differences

Widely understood across generations.

Regional Variations

Common in most English-speaking regions.

Sit on the fence

🎲 Smell something fishy

[1177] Skate on thin ice