on the high ropes: meaning & examples

Meanings:

• 1.

  United StatesUnited KingdomAustraliaCanadaneutralMachine
  • Participating in a high ropes course or similar elevated rope-and‑platform recreational activity that involves climbing, balance elements, and safety equipment.

  Examples

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  • During the team-building retreat, everyone spent the afternoon on the high ropes, challenging their balance and courage.

    During the team-building retreat, everyone participated in a high ropes course involving climbing and balance challenges.

  • Amy was nervous at first but felt a huge sense of accomplishment after completing the obstacles on the high ropes.

    Amy was nervous at first but felt a huge sense of accomplishment after completing the challenges on the high ropes course.

  • The children were harnessed safely as they moved carefully on the high ropes during the outdoor adventure.

    The children were safely secured as they moved on the elevated ropes and platforms during the outdoor adventure.

  • It took teamwork and trust to get everyone through the high ropes course without any accidents.

    It took teamwork and trust to complete the elevated rope course without any accidents.

• 2.

  United StatesUnited KingdominformalMachine
  • In a precarious, exposed, or challenging situation (metaphorically likened to being on a high ropes course), often implying a need for support or steadying assistance.

  Examples

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  • With the company facing bankruptcy, the board felt like they were on the high ropes, needing support to stay afloat.

    With the company facing bankruptcy, the board felt in a precarious situation, needing support to stay afloat.

  • After the scandal, the politician was on the high ropes and relied heavily on advisors to navigate the fallout.

    After the scandal, the politician was in a challenging situation and relied heavily on advisors to navigate the fallout.

  • Negotiating the contract without legal counsel put her on the high ropes, risking mistakes with serious consequences.

    Negotiating the contract without legal counsel put her in a risky position, risking mistakes with serious consequences.