Walking on eggshells
/ˈwɔːkɪŋ ɒn ˈeɡʃelz/informal, neutralUK · US
What does “Walking on eggshells” mean?
Walking on eggshells means being extremely careful not to upset someone.
The phrase describes sustained tension, not a single careful moment. It usually implies the other person is unpredictable.
It carries real discomfort, so it is not used lightly.
When do people say it?
Used about tense households, teams and relationships.
“Since the restructure everyone's been walking on eggshells around the new director.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal, neutral. It is most at home in both everyday conversation and professional writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
Twentieth century, from the image of treading on something that breaks instantly.
Origin confidence: Well documented
How do you say “Walking on eggshells” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Add fuel to the fire, To make a conflict worse.
- The elephant in the room, An obvious issue nobody mentions.
Last reviewed 2026-09-11