hang by a thread

== English == === Alternative forms === hang on by a thread === Etymology === An allusion to the anecdotal sword of Damocles, which was suspended by a hair. === Pronunciation === === Verb === hang by a thread (third-person singular simple present hangs by a thread, present participle hanging by a thread, simple past and past participle hung by a thread) (idiomatic) To be in danger, calling for precise caution; to be in a precarious situation. Synonym: hang by a hair ==== Translations ==== === References ===