How to Pronounce "on the bubble"
expression
ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈbəbəɫ
AHN-thuh-BUH-buhl
ˈɒn/ /ðə, ði/ /bˈʌbəl
ON-thuh-BUB-uhl
Definition
An expression used when someone or something is very close to qualifying or being eliminated, usually in competitions, sports, or other selection processes.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈbəbəɫ
British English
ˈɒn/ /ðə, ði/ /bˈʌbəl
Simplified Pronunciation
US
AHN-thuh-BUH-buhl
UK
ON-thuh-BUB-uhl
Listen in Context
Our team is on the bubble for the playoffs this year.
She is on the bubble for getting that new job.
Several students are on the bubble for passing the final exam.
We're really on the bubble this season; one more loss and we're out.