tightrope walking; risky undertaking
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesnoun
tightrope walking; wire walking
Refers specifically to the acrobatic performance art of walking and performing stunts on a suspended steel wire.
The circus performer is walking a tightrope high in the air.
Tightrope walking requires extremely strong balance and courage.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
When I was young, I most enjoyed watching tightrope walking performances in acrobatics.
verb
to walk a tightrope; to take risks; to engage in a precarious undertaking
Metaphorical usage describing a situation that requires careful balance between opposing dangers or interests, often implying high risk.
Investing in the current economic environment is like walking a tightrope.
He is walking a tightrope between two opposing factions, trying to maintain balance.
Show 2 more examplesShow fewer examples
This foreign policy walks a tightrope, needing to both safeguard sovereignty and avoid conflict.
Construction without safety measures is simply walking a tightrope.