View synonyms for

knife edge

noun

the cutting edge of a knife.
anything very sharp.
a wedge on the fine edge of which a scale beam, pendulum, or the like, balances or oscillates.

knife edge

noun

the sharp cutting edge of a knife
any sharp edge
a sharp-edged wedge of hard material on which the beam of a balance pivots or about which a pendulum is suspended
a critical point in the development of a situation, process of making a decision, etc

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Word History and Origins

Origin of knife edge¹

First recorded in 1810–20

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

"It's been on a knife edge as to whether our house will get inundated or not, so there's been quite a bit of anxiety," he told the BBC.

From

However, the Resolution Foundation said the risk of the government of breaking its own fiscal rules "remains on a knife edge" because borrowing costs remain higher than in the Autumn.

From

The case also underscores how our personal rights are perched on a judicial knife edge in today’s America.

From

Polls suggest the race for the White House rests on a knife edge.

From

I think naturally the car’s going to go towards him as in a bit less on a knife edge and more usable,” Albon continued.

From

Related Words

pleat

knife box knife-edged

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