On shaky ground
Meaning
To be in a precarious or unstable position, where one's arguments, plans, or standing are weak and likely to fail.
Origin
The phrase draws a direct, vivid comparison to a physical structure built on an unstable or unreliable foundation. Imagine a house constructed on shifting sand or loose earth; it lacks stability and is prone to collapse. This powerful image of physical precariousness naturally extended into the realm of abstract concepts, becoming a popular metaphor in the early 20th century to describe arguments, positions, or relationships that lacked solid support or were vulnerable to failure. The phrase perfectly encapsulates the feeling of impending collapse due to a lack of fundamental strength.
Examples
- After the company announced record losses, the CEO found himself on shaky ground with the board of directors.
- Her argument for funding the new project was on shaky ground because she lacked sufficient data to support her claims.