# 岌岌可危

jí jí kě wēi

Be on the verge of danger or collapse

## Meaning & wording

**Literally:** Totter in a dangerously high state

**Register:** Concerned · formal

[Change & possibility](https://chinese-idioms.yudis.dev/idioms/topics/change)

## When to use it

Describe a fragile situation approaching failure.

Stronger than ordinary uncertainty.

## Understanding the expression

Something high and unstable can fall if its support weakens further. Modern use applies that precarious image to jobs, organizations, structures, or relationships close to serious trouble. It emphasizes the present fragility of the situation, not a remote possibility. The expression can warn people to act before failure becomes complete. Specific causes are useful: declining funds, damaged supports, or lost trust show what needs attention better than a dramatic label alone.

## Examples

他的职位已经岌岌可危。

### Traditional Chinese

他的職位已經岌岌可危。

tā de zhí wèi yǐ jīng jí jí kě wēi 。

His position is now in serious danger.

老墙在暴雨中岌岌可危。

### Traditional Chinese

老牆在暴雨中岌岌可危。

lǎo qiáng zài bào yǔ zhōng jí jí kě wēi 。

The old wall is dangerously unstable in the rain.

资金不足让项目岌岌可危。

### Traditional Chinese

資金不足讓項目岌岌可危。

zī jīn bù zú ràng xiàng mù jí jí kě wēi 。

Insufficient funds put the project near collapse.

双方的合作关系岌岌可危。

### Traditional Chinese

雙方的合作關係岌岌可危。

shuāng fāng de hé zuò guān xì jí jí kě wēi 。

Their cooperative relationship is on the brink.

## Sources & reference checks

Original explanations and examples from Chinese Idioms Almanac. Source-checked October 6, 2026.

- [CC-CEDICT · forms & pronunciation](https://www.mdbg.net/chinese/dictionary?page=worddict&wdqb=%E5%B2%8C%E5%B2%8C%E5%8F%AF%E5%8D%B1)

- [Ministry of Education · 成語典](https://dict.idioms.moe.edu.tw/idiomView.jsp?ID=314&webMd=1&la=0)

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