How to Pronounce "thread the needle"
expression
ˈθɹɛd/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈnidəɫ
THRED thuh NEE-duhl
θɹˈɛd/ /ðə, ði/ /nˈiːdəl
th-RED the NEE-duhl
Definition
To literally pass thread through the eye of a needle, or figuratively, to succeed in a very difficult or delicate task, especially finding a careful balance between two situations.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈθɹɛd/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈnidəɫ
British English
θɹˈɛd/ /ðə, ði/ /nˈiːdəl
Simplified Pronunciation
US
THRED thuh NEE-duhl
UK
th-RED the NEE-duhl
Listen in Context
She tried to thread the needle, but her hands were shaking.
Sometimes you have to thread the needle to make everyone happy.
He skillfully threaded the needle during the debate.
If we want this deal to work, we’ll have to thread the needle between both sides’ demands.