What does “On the chopping block” mean?

"On the chopping block" means that something or someone is in danger of being eliminated or cut.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The company's underperforming divisions are on the chopping block.

Example

Several employees are worried that their jobs might be on the chopping block.

Example

The budget for the project is on the chopping block due to financial constraints

Is “On the chopping block” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“On the chopping block” 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 the chopping block” effectively in context?

You can use "On the chopping block" to describe something or someone that is in danger of being eliminated or cut. It emphasizes the precariousness of the situation and the possibility of loss. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:

1Business
The company's underperforming divisions are on the chopping block.
2Employment
Several employees are worried that their jobs might be on the chopping block.
3Budgeting
The budget for the project is on the chopping block due to financial constraints.

Similar phrases to “On the chopping block”:

Hang by a thread

To be in a precarious or vulnerable position

Example

His job security is hanging by a thread.

In the firing line

To be in a position where one is likely to be criticized, blamed, or targeted

Example

The CEO is in the firing line for the company's poor performance.

Under the axe

In danger of being eliminated or cut

Example

The project is under the axe due to budget constraints.

On thin ice

In a risky or precarious situation

Example

After missing several deadlines, he's on thin ice with his boss.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “On the chopping block” come from?

The origin of the phrase "On the chopping block" can be traced back to the practice of butchering animals. When an animal was slaughtered, it would be placed on a large wooden block called a chopping block, where it would be cut into pieces. The phrase came to symbolize something or someone in danger of being eliminated or cut.

Is “On the chopping block” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "On the chopping block" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation, especially in business and employment contexts. People often use it to express the possibility of something or someone being eliminated or cut.

What tone does “On the chopping block” have?

"On the chopping block" conveys a tone of uncertainty and concern. It suggests that there is a potential loss or negative outcome associated with the situation.

Can “On the chopping block” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "On the chopping block" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in casual conversations as well as in professional contexts such as meetings, presentations, or discussions about budget cuts.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The department's budget is on the chopping block.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Looks like it's "on the chopping block"!' to imply that something is in danger of being eliminated or cut.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

in the hot seat
in a tight spot
at risk
in jeopardy
in the line of fire
in a vulnerable position
on the edge
under scrutiny
under threat
in the balance