What does “On ice” mean?
"On ice" means that something is temporarily postponed or delayed.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The project has been put on ice until further notice.
Example
The plans for the new building are currently on ice.
Example
The negotiations have been on ice for the past few weeks
Is “On ice” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“On ice” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “On ice” effectively in context?
You can use "On ice" to describe something that has been temporarily postponed or delayed. It implies that the project, plan, or negotiation is not currently active or progressing. For example, if a friend asks about your plans for a vacation and you haven't made any progress, you might say, 'The trip is still on ice for now.'
- 1Project Management
The construction project has hit some obstacles, so it's been put on ice until we can resolve them.
- 2Planning
The company's expansion plans are currently on ice due to budget constraints.
- 3Negotiations
The peace talks have been on ice for months, with no progress being made.
Similar phrases to “On ice”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “On ice” come from?
The origin of the phrase "On ice" is unknown.
Is “On ice” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "On ice" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where something is temporarily postponed or delayed.
What tone does “On ice” have?
"On ice" conveys a tone of temporary inactivity or delay. It suggests that the situation is not progressing at the moment but may resume in the future.
Can “On ice” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "On ice" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a temporary pause or delay. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional emails.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The project has been put on ice until further notice.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'The plans are still on ice.' to imply that they are still delayed.
