Danger Idioms

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paper tiger

Meaning: Something or someone that appears dangerous or powerful but is actually weak and ineffective.

Example: The dictator's military seemed formidable, but in battle it was only a paper tiger. Read more ➺


between Scylla and Charybdis

Meaning: Facing two dangerous options where avoiding one brings you closer to the other.

Example: The company was between Scylla and Charybdis: raise prices and lose customers, or keep them the same and face bankruptcy. Read more ➺


steer clear

Meaning: Avoid or stay away from something or someone, especially to prevent trouble or danger.

Example: I steered clear of the crowded market to enjoy a quieter trip. Read more ➺


sword of Damocles

Meaning: Represents a constant and looming threat of danger or disaster.

Example: Despite his fame and wealth, the sword of Damocles hung over the celebrity due to endless lawsuits. Read more ➺


sail close to the wind

Meaning: To engage in actions that are risky or verge on being illegal or improper.

Example: The journalist sailed close to the wind by publishing classified information but avoided legal action. Read more ➺


hang by a thread

Meaning: Be in a very dangerous situation or state; to be very close to death, failure, etc.

Example: The company's future is hanging by a thread after the recent financial crisis. Read more ➺


wake-up call

Meaning: An event or situation that alerts people to a problem or danger, prompting them to take action.

Example: The sudden drop in sales was a wake-up call for the company to revamp its marketing strategy. Read more ➺


false alarm

Meaning: An alert or warning that ultimately proves to be untrue or unwarranted, often leading to unnecessary panic or action.

Example: The fire drill turned out to be a false alarm, but everyone evacuated quickly. Read more ➺


hornet’s nest

Meaning: A situation full of problems or difficulties, often causing disputes or controversy.

Example: The journalist's investigation stirred up a hornet's nest in the political arena. Read more ➺


touch and go

Meaning: precarious or delicate in nature, uncertain, and risky.

Example: The patient's condition was touch-and-go after the surgery. Read more ➺


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