hang by a thread
if something is hanging by a thread, it is in a very dangerous situation and may not continue

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

hang by a thread
if something hangs by a thread, it is likely to fail in the near future.
Peace and democracy hang by a thread in this troubled country.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

hang by a thread
• hang by a hair/thread
to be in an uncertain position and depend on something not substantial; be in doubt, depend on a very small thing
The results of the election are still undecided and are hanging by a hair.

The outcome of the election was hanging by a thread until late at night.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲

hang by a thread
v. phr. To depend on a very small thing; be in doubt.
For three days Tom was so sick that his life hung by a thread.
As Joe got ready to kick a field goal, the result of the game hung by a hair.
Compare: HANG IN THE BALANCE.

[TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲