had to walk on eggshells vs walk on eggshells

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Had to walk on eggshells' implies a past necessity to be cautious or delicate in a situation, while 'walk on eggshells' suggests a current need to be careful or sensitive. The addition of 'had to' in the first phrase emphasizes the past requirement for caution.

Last updated: March 20, 2024

had to walk on eggshells

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a past necessity to be cautious or delicate in a situation.

This phrase is used to describe a situation where someone needed to be very careful or sensitive in their actions or words in the past.

Examples:

After the argument, she had to walk on eggshells around him for weeks.
He had to walk on eggshells during the negotiations to avoid upsetting the other party.

Alternatives:

tread carefully
be cautious
be delicate
watch one's step
mind one's Ps and Qs

walk on eggshells

This phrase is correct and commonly used to indicate a current need to be careful or sensitive in a situation.

This phrase is used to describe a current situation where someone needs to be very careful or sensitive in their actions or words.

Examples:

She felt like she had to walk on eggshells around her boss.
In such a tense environment, it's important to walk on eggshells.

Alternatives:

be cautious
tread lightly
handle with care
be sensitive
mind one's manners

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had to walk on eggshells vs walk on eggshells