touch and go
1
movements or actions that happen with a lot of speed
The idiom "touch and go" originally had maritime origins, referring to a situation where a ship's keel would briefly touch the sea bottom before continuing its voyage. In this context, "touch" indicated the momentary contact with the seabed, and "go" signified that the ship could proceed safely. This phrase is used to describe movements or actions that occur quickly and with great speed and agility. It conveys the idea of something happening rapidly and effortlessly.
- The athlete's performance in the race was characterized by touch-and-go movements as he sprinted towards the finish line.
- The skilled dancer executed a series of touch-and-go leaps and spins across the stage.
- During the high-speed chase, the cars engaged in touch-and-go maneuvers through the city streets.
- The martial artist's touch-and-go strikes were too quick for the opponent to defend against.
- The acrobat performed a stunning routine of touch-and-go flips and somersaults on the trapeze.
2
involving risk and uncertainty
The idiom "touch and go" has maritime origins, dating back to the early days of sailing. It referred to a situation where a ship's keel barely touched the sea bottom, allowing it to continue its voyage without running aground. The "touch" referred to this brief contact with the seabed, and "go" indicated that the ship could continue its journey. This idiomatic expression is used to describe a situation that is precarious, uncertain, or risky, often implying that the outcome is unpredictable and could swing in either direction.
- It's touch and go whether he'll pull through at the end of this month.
- In the final minutes of the game, the outcome was touch and go, with both teams vying for victory.
- The negotiations with the rival company were touch and go, with both sides hesitant to compromise.
- His recovery from the illness was touch and go for a while, but he gradually improved.
- The success of the business venture was touch and go in its early stages, but it eventually thrived.
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