Danger Idioms

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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 ➺


out of the woods

Meaning: no longer in danger or difficulty.

Example: After months of uncertainty, the company is finally out of the woods and back on track. Read more ➺


wolf in sheep’s clothing

Meaning: deceptive appearance, like a dangerous person disguised as harmless.

Example: The new employee was a wolf in sheep's clothing, stealing company secrets. Read more ➺


safe and sound

Meaning: unharmed or uninjured.

Example: After the storm passed, we found our house still standing and our family safe and sound. Read more ➺


bell the cat

Meaning: do a dangerous job.

Example: Someone has to bell the cat and organize the office fundraiser, but so far, no one has volunteered. Read more ➺


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