walking on eggshells

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "walking on eggshells" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe a situation in which someone is being very cautious with their words and actions out of fear of upsetting another person. For example: I feel like I'm always walking on eggshells around her, worried that I might say something that will upset her.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"I'm walking on eggshells.

The New York Times

"It's like walking on eggshells.

The New York Times

Sounds like he is walking on eggshells.

The New York Times

You're always walking on eggshells, you're scrutinised.

The Guardian

I was constantly walking on eggshells.

The New York Times - Style

They both describe still walking on eggshells at times,.

Independent

But she soon found herself "walking on eggshells," she said.

The New York Times

Every step I took felt like walking on eggshells.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

He's kind of in a constant state of walking on eggshells around women.

Huffington Post

Talk about walking on eggshells — every conversation or argument about the maps teeters between politics and race.

The New York Times

I'm walking on eggshells and wondering how far these kids will go".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "walking on eggshells" to vividly describe situations where tension or sensitivity is high, and individuals are extremely careful to avoid causing offense or problems. This idiom effectively conveys the feeling of precariousness.

Common error

Avoid using "walking on eggshells" when simply referring to being careful to prevent physical accidents. This idiom specifically implies interpersonal or emotional sensitivity, not physical clumsiness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "walking on eggshells" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as a verb phrase within a sentence. It vividly describes a state of extreme caution, where individuals are careful not to upset or offend someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely recognized and accurately communicates a sense of tension and precariousness in interpersonal interactions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Reference

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "walking on eggshells" effectively describes a state of heightened caution and sensitivity, particularly in interpersonal situations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide acceptance. It's frequently used in news and media to depict tense environments, and while it's versatile, it should be reserved for contexts involving emotional or interpersonal delicacy, not mere physical carefulness. Alternatives like "treading carefully" or "being extra cautious" can be used for similar meanings, but "walking on eggshells" carries a unique weight of precariousness. With a high source quality score and expert rating, it remains a valuable and vivid expression in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

treading carefully

Focuses on the act of being cautious in one's actions, similar to "walking on eggshells" but less idiomatic.

handling with kid gloves

Highlights the delicate and careful treatment of a person or situation.

watching your step

Emphasizes the need to be careful about one's actions and words to avoid mistakes or negative consequences.

proceeding with caution

Suggests a deliberate and careful approach to a task or situation, minimizing risks.

being extra cautious

Implies a heightened state of awareness and carefulness, removing the metaphorical element.

taking great care

General expression for being very attentive and mindful to prevent errors or offense.

being diplomatic

Suggests handling a situation with sensitivity and tact, especially in negotiations or sensitive discussions.

being mindful of sensitivities

Directly relates to awareness and consideration of others' feelings and reactions.

avoiding rocking the boat

Focuses on maintaining stability and avoiding disruptions, often by being careful in one's actions.

steering clear of trouble

Highlights the intention to evade problems by being cautious and avoiding certain behaviors or topics.

FAQs

How can I use "walking on eggshells" in a sentence?

You can use "walking on eggshells" to describe a situation where someone is being very careful with their words and actions to avoid upsetting another person. For example, "I feel like I'm always walking on eggshells around my boss."

What does it mean to feel like you're "walking on eggshells"?

Feeling like you're walking on eggshells means you are being extremely cautious and careful in your words and actions because you fear upsetting someone or causing a problem. It suggests a tense and fragile situation.

What can I say instead of "walking on eggshells"?

You can use alternatives like "treading carefully", "being extra cautious", or "handling with kid gloves" depending on the context.

Is "walking on eggs" an acceptable alternative to "walking on eggshells"?

While "walking on eggs" is sometimes used, "walking on eggshells" is the more common and widely accepted idiom. "Walking on eggs" might be considered less formal or slightly incorrect by some.