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precarious position

[prɪˈkɛəriəs pəˈzɪʃən]
noun phrasepl: precarious positions / posições precárias
posição precária
1. An unstable or uncertain situation where someone lacks security, stability, or safety; a vulnerable circumstance that could easily change for the worse
After losing his job, he found himself in a precarious position financially.
Depois de perder seu emprego, ele se viu em uma posição precária financeiramente.
2. A physically unstable or dangerous location or situation
The climber was in a precarious position on the narrow ledge.
O alpinista estava em uma posição precária na estreita saliência.
NYC Slang
in a tight spot / in deep water
Synonyms
unstable positionvulnerable positionuncertain situationrisky positionshaky positiontenuous position
Antonyms
secure positionstable positionfirm positionsafe positionsolid position

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
posição precária
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
situação delicada
Alternative colloquial expression
São Paulo
posição frágil
Slightly more formal alternative
Portugal
posição precária
Standard Portuguese equivalent, identical to Brazilian usage

Related Idioms & Phrases

walking a tightrope
on thin ice
between a rock and a hard place
in hot water
estar com a corda no pescoço (Portuguese idiom: to be in a precarious situation)
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