high-wire act

Idioms  

1. A risky job or operation, as in The university press is not allowed to either make or lose money—that's a high-wire act. This expression alludes to the aerialist performing on a tightrope stretched high above the ground. [Colloquial; mid-1900s]

---

Example Sentences

Investors are performing a similar high-wire act in a stock market where a growing range of non-tech companies are trading like richly valued tech shares—for better and for worse.

From The Wall Street Journal

The topsy-turvy path to Friday’s quiet close reminded investors of the many forces that have made markets’ record-breaking run in recent months feel more like a high-wire act.

From The Wall Street Journal

Disney released its corporate executive compensation packages Thursday, as the board prepares for its high-wire act of picking a new leader to replace Iger, whose contract ends in December.

From Los Angeles Times

Even with big names attached this time, the fight to ensure buy-in will be tougher here, an issue that will feel all the more acute given the high-wire act of staging even international cricket without the requisite permanent venues.

From BBC

Picking a new leader for a company that is adored by millions and employs 230,000 people is a high-wire act.

From Los Angeles Times