on ice

USAGE SUMMARY

"on ice" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something being kept or stored in a cool place, either literally or figuratively. For example, you could say, "We have to keep those ideas on ice until the team is ready to move forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

market on ice.

The New York Times

It's Busby Berkeley on ice.

The New Yorker

The champagne is on ice.

Independent

"Bambi on ice," Nick said.

The New Yorker

Don't like skiing on ice?

The New York Times - Travel

Doctor Who on ice!

The Guardian

"Feed, on ice.

The New York Times

Fresh dinner on ice.

The New York Times - Sports

A miracle on ice?

The New York Times

There have been many miracles on ice.

The New York Times - Sports

HARTFORD XL Center Disney on Ice.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on ice" to mean 'postponed', ensure the context clearly indicates a temporary delay, not a permanent cancellation. For example, "The project is on ice pending funding approval."

Common error

Avoid using "on ice" in formal writing when a more precise term like 'postponed', 'delayed', or 'suspended' would provide greater clarity. Reserve it for informal contexts or when the imagery of being kept cold is relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on ice" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate a state of being postponed, preserved, or literally situated on ice. Ludwig AI confirms the varied usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on ice" is a versatile prepositional phrase denoting either a literal state of being physically on ice or, more figuratively, a state of suspension or postponement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, although more formal situations may warrant more precise language. While primarily found in news media and scientific contexts, its usage varies depending on whether it refers to literal cooling or figurative delays. When aiming for clarity and precision in formal writing, consider alternatives like “postponed” or “suspended”. The phrase exhibits a generally neutral to informal register, offering a flexible option for conveying temporary states.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

put on hold

Similar to "temporarily shelved", but can also imply a waiting period for a decision or action.

temporarily shelved

Specifically indicates that something has been postponed or delayed, a meaning of "on ice" applicable primarily in figurative contexts.

tabled for now

Formally postpones discussion or action to a later time.

in cold storage

Implies a longer-term preservation or holding of something, differing from the potential immediacy of "on ice".

in suspended animation

Suggests a complete halt to activity, often with the expectation of future revival, which adds a layer of potential dormancy not always present in "on ice".

kept chilled

Refers specifically to maintaining a cool temperature, applicable when "on ice" denotes literal cooling.

at a standstill

Highlights a halt in progress, often due to obstacles or lack of resources.

in the freezer

Literal term for keeping something very cold, where "on ice" can sometimes be figurative.

being preserved

Emphasizes the act of maintaining something in its current state, potentially for long periods.

under wraps

Implies secrecy or confidentiality in addition to being held back.

FAQs

How can "on ice" be used literally?

Literally, "on ice" refers to something physically placed on ice to keep it cold, such as "Keep the drinks "on ice" at the party".

What does "on ice" mean when referring to a project or plan?

Figuratively, putting something "on ice" means it is temporarily postponed or "put on hold" until a later date or a more favorable situation arises.

Is it appropriate to use "on ice" in formal business communication?

While understandable, using "on ice" in formal business writing may be too informal. Consider using more precise terms like "deferred", "postponed", or "suspended" for clarity.

What are some alternatives to "on ice" in a scientific context?

In scientific contexts, it's best to be specific. Instead of "on ice", you might say "kept chilled", "maintained at a low temperature", or "stored at 4 degrees Celsius".