Hangs by a thread/hair In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "hangs by a thread/hair", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Jenne Phuong

2021-10-29 08:10

Meaning of Hangs by a thread/hair (redirected from hang by a thread/hair )

Hang by a thread/hair phrase

Literally, to be connected simply by a single thread, strand, or other similar means.

You're so careless to have your documents hung by a thread like that.

Figuratively, to be at risk of failing, dying, or having a negative consequence.

Our environmental project is hanging by a hair due to the shortage of finance.

She knows that if she fails the exam, her whole future will hang by a thread.

Grammar and Usage of Hang by a thread/hair

Verb Forms

hangs by a thread/hair
hanging by a thread/hair
hung by a thread/hair

The verb "hang" should be conjugated according to its tense.

Origin of Hang by a thread/hair

This expression, already proverbial in the early 1500s, alludes to Damocles, who vexed King Dionysius with constant flattery. The king invited him to a banquet where Damocles found himself seated under a naked sword suspended by a single hair, symbolizing his insecure position at the court.

The Origin Cited: English Language Blog .