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]

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Example Sentences

AUGUSTA, Ga. — From wire-to-wire to a harrowing high-wire act.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 12, 2026

It is not merely that his high-wire act supports and intensifies the drama and excitement that made him the dominant figure in American and then global politics for the past decade.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 11, 2026

But walking that path is becoming a high-wire act: If the U.S. can continue on this trajectory, the reward is high.

From Barron's • Oct. 9, 2025

But some in government believe this is seen as too much of a high-wire act, and don't want to risk defeat.

From BBC • Jun. 25, 2025

With life a continuous high-wire act, he trained every surviving fiber to precision, dexterity, and tenacity.

From A Matter of Proportion by Walker, Anne