threads the needle
Finds narrow opening
To thread the needle is to navigate a narrow path between obstacles or extremes, requiring precision and skill.
A quarterback threads the needle by throwing into tight coverage.
A politician threads the needle by satisfying opposing factions.
The phrase comes from passing thread through a needle's eye—a task demanding steady hands and careful aim.
She threaded the needle between being too harsh and too lenient.
- eyeOrgan of sight
- accuracyDegree of correctness
- steadyFixed, not fluctuating
- compromiseAgreement through mutual sacrifice
- split the differenceAgree on midpoint amount
diplomacy · tact · negotiation · delicate · finesse · careful · tight squeeze · adaptability · dexterity · narrow · embroidery · stitching · squeeze · judgment · meticulousness · expertise · sewing kit · equilibrium
threads the needlebulldozes
Demolishes with heavy equipment
bludgeons · steamrolls · brute-forces · fumbles · hacks away
threads the needlemisses the mark
Fails to achieve aim
crashes and burns · falls flat · drops the ball · blows it · chokes
threads the needleswings for the fences
Attempts something extremely ambitious
polarizes · doubles down · digs in · takes no prisoners · goes overboard
thread, threads, threaded, threading, threadbare, needle, needles, needled, needling