Meaning
To be very cautious to avoid upsetting someone.
Cultural Background
Germans value directness, so using this phrase is a clear signal that the situation is unusually sensitive. Similar usage to Germany, often used in professional settings to describe political tension. Used in the same way, often in the context of maintaining social harmony.
Use it for people
This phrase is best used when talking about people or social situations.
Don't use for physical danger
Avoid using this for literal physical danger, like walking on a cliff.
Meaning
To be very cautious to avoid upsetting someone.
Use it for people
This phrase is best used when talking about people or social situations.
Don't use for physical danger
Avoid using this for literal physical danger, like walking on a cliff.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct phrase.
Wenn ich bei meinem Chef vorsichtig bin, sage ich: Ich ____.
The idiom requires 'wie' and the dative plural 'Eiern'.
Fill in the missing word.
Ich gehe bei ihr wie auf ____.
The idiom uses the dative plural form.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
2 exercisesWenn ich bei meinem Chef vorsichtig bin, sage ich: Ich ____.
The idiom requires 'wie' and the dative plural 'Eiern'.
Ich gehe bei ihr wie auf ____.
The idiom uses the dative plural form.
🎉 Score: /2
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsIt is better to use more formal language like 'vorsichtig agieren' in emails.
Yes, the verb 'gehen' is fixed in this idiom.
Related Phrases
auf dünnem Eis gehen
similarwalking on thin ice
vorsichtig sein
builds onto be careful
mit Samthandschuhen anfassen
similarto handle with kid gloves
