Danger Idioms

Page 3 of 4

on the line

Meaning: to be at serious risk.

Example: Put your toes on the line and form up! Read more ➺


red zone

Meaning: any geographical area that is thought to be dangerous or threatening, usually as a consequence of political or military activity.

Example: The alley behind the schoolyard is effectively a "red zone," since that is where all of the bullies hang out. Read more ➺


fiddle while Rome burns

Meaning: to perform an inconsequential task or act irresponsibly in the midst of a disastrous event.

Example: Vacuuming the carpet while her co-worker was in with the boss, trying to steal her job, felt like fiddling while Rome burned. Read more ➺


get out of dodge

Meaning: to leave.

Example: When I saw the big dog stalking toward me, growling and slobbering, I knew it was time to get out of dodge. Read more ➺


close call

Meaning: a narrow escape from disaster

Example: It was quite a close call, but my father managed to avoid hitting the animal that ran across the highway. Read more ➺


too close for comfort

Meaning: to be very close to something dangerous or unwelcoming

Example: She was standing on the edge of a cliff in the photo, too close for comfort. Read more ➺


on edge

Meaning: Nervous, tense, or anxious about something.

Example: After hearing the strange noise outside, Emma stayed on edge for the rest of the night. Read more ➺


the lion’s den

Meaning: a place which is uncomfortable

Example: Two of the new students were thrown into the lion's den as their ragging was taking place. Read more ➺


lie low

Meaning: To keep quiet and avoid attention, especially to escape danger or trouble.

Example: After the scandal, the politician decided to lie low until things calmed down. Read more ➺


warn off

Meaning: inform someone forcefully to stay at a distance

Example: The board was placed near the manhole to warn off the kids from playing there. Read more ➺


Share
Share