危ない橋を渡る
abunai hashi o wataruTo take a risky action despite knowing the potential consequences, often involving moral or legal danger.
政治家が汚職疑惑で危ない橋を渡っている。
The politician is walking a tightrope with corruption allegations.
彼女は友達の恋人と付き合って、危ない橋を渡っている。
She's dating her friend's partner, playing with fire.
Commonly used when someone is engaging in risky behavior that could lead to serious trouble if discovered.
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
When to use this idiom
Use this when someone is knowingly taking a risk that could have serious consequences if discovered. Common in business, politics, or personal relationships where the stakes are high.
⚡Gold Rule
Don't confuse with literal meaning
This idiom always refers to metaphorical danger, not physical crossing of bridges. Even if someone is literally crossing a dangerous bridge, the idiom would only apply if the context is about taking a risky action.
📖Word Origin
The phrase combines 危ない (abunai, dangerous) + 橋 (hashi, bridge) + 渡る (wataru, to cross). The bridge metaphor suggests walking a precarious path where one wrong step could lead to disaster. The idiom likely originates from the literal danger of crossing unstable bridges in historical contexts.
📝Usage Notes
This idiom is often used in contexts involving moral dilemmas, legal risks, or personal relationships where the consequences of getting caught would be severe. It implies a calculated risk where the person is aware of the danger but proceeds anyway.