tightrope

Everyday

1. A tightrope is a rope or wire stretched tight high above the ground, which an acrobat walks along. tree →
2. «To walk a tightrope» means to be in a difficult situation where you must be very careful, because a small mistake could cause trouble. tree →

In the lessons

In circus stories a tightrope walker balances with a long pole or with arms held out. In science, it is an example of balance and centre of gravity: holding a long pole helps keep balance. In everyday speech, «walking a tightrope» means keeping two sides happy or avoiding a mistake. Phrases: «walk a tightrope», «tightrope walker», «on a tightrope».

Examples

• The tightrope walker crossed high above the circus ring. tree →
• She held a long pole to keep her balance on the tightrope. tree →
• Nobody fell off the tightrope. tree →
• Our teacher showed that a pole helps balance, just like on a tightrope. tree →
• Being friends with both groups felt like walking a tightrope. tree →
• There was a safety net under the tightrope. tree →
• We made a pretend tightrope with a line of tape on the floor. tree →

Note

Countable noun, plural tightropes. One word. «Walk a tightrope» is an idiom and usually has nothing to do with a real rope. Do not confuse with «tight rope» (any rope pulled tight).