is touch and go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is touch and go" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation that is uncertain or risky, where the outcome is not guaranteed. Example: "The surgery was touch and go for a while, but the doctors managed to stabilize her condition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

It is touch, and go.

The Economist

"Everything is touch and go.

The Guardian

McLeish said: "It is touch and go.

The Guardian - Sport

'It is touch and go whether we will clear the debts,' says Treharne.

The Guardian - Sport

It is touch and go whether the ailing incumbent, Boris Yeltsin, will reach the end of his term in 2000.

The Economist

But supporters of positive discrimination say it is touch and go whether the proposal on winnable seats will get through.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

After her sudden birth Abiageal's stomach turned black and her survival was touch-and-go.

BBC

"Turkey is touch-and-go, and Jordan is becoming more anti-American," Mr. Danti said.

The New York Times

The Saracens fly-half is touch-and-go for next weekend's final.

The Guardian - Sport

Vertonghen returned to training on Friday but he is touch-and-go to come back into the team.

The Guardian - Sport

Later, as the wind rises, it is touch-and-go whether the dish can withstand the gale.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is touch and go" to convey a sense of uncertainty where the outcome is unpredictable and depends on fluctuating circumstances.

Common error

Avoid using "is touch and go" for situations that are merely inconvenient or slightly problematic. This phrase indicates a genuinely critical or precarious scenario, not just a minor setback.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is touch and go" functions as a predicative expression, often modifying a subject to describe its condition or the status of a situation. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English, signaling its role in standard communication.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "is touch and go" effectively conveys a sense of precariousness and uncertainty. As Ludwig confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's best reserved for genuinely critical situations. Alternatives like "is uncertain" or "is precarious" can provide similar nuances. Overall, understanding the appropriate context ensures clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is uncertain

Emphasizes the lack of predictability in the situation.

is precarious

Highlights the instability and potential danger of the situation.

is up in the air

Indicates that the outcome is still undecided and subject to change.

is hanging in the balance

Suggests that the situation is at a critical point with an uncertain resolution.

is a close call

Implies that the situation was nearly unsuccessful or dangerous.

is nip and tuck

Describes a situation where the outcome is very close and difficult to predict.

is on a knife-edge

Highlights the delicate and risky nature of the situation.

is in doubt

Suggests that there are serious concerns about the success or positive outcome.

remains to be seen

Indicates that the outcome will only be known in the future.

is chancy

Emphasizes the high level of risk and potential for failure.

FAQs

What does "is touch and go" mean?

The expression "is touch and go" means that the outcome of a situation is uncertain and that things could go either way. It implies a precarious situation where the result is difficult to predict.

How can I use "is touch and go" in a sentence?

You can use "is touch and go" to describe situations where the outcome is uncertain. For example: "After the surgery, his recovery "is touch and go"." or "Whether the project will be completed on time "is touch and go"."

What are some alternatives to "is touch and go"?

Alternatives to "is touch and go" include phrases like "is uncertain", "is precarious", or "is hanging in the balance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is touch and go"?

It's appropriate to use "is touch and go" when describing a situation that is critical and whose outcome is highly uncertain. It implies that the situation could easily worsen or fail, so use it when you want to convey that sense of precariousness.