How Do You Spell ON ICE?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒn ˈa͡ɪs] (IPA)

The phrase "on ice" is a combination of the preposition "on" and the noun "ice". The pronunciation of "on" is /ɒn/ in British English and /ɑn/ in American English, both having a short vowel sound. "Ice" is pronounced as /aɪs/ in both accents, with a long vowel sound for "i". In terms of spelling, "on" is spelled with two letters while "ice" is spelled with three letters. When combined, they form a two-word phrase that is commonly used to describe a situation where something is being held back or delayed until a later time.

ON ICE Meaning and Definition

1. On ice is a common idiom that typically refers to a state where something is put on hold, delayed, or suspended for a period of time. The phrase originates from the world of ice-skating and is metaphorically used to depict an activity or situation being frozen or stalled, akin to an object placed on a frozen surface.

   In a figurative sense, when something is put on ice, it means that it is being temporarily or indefinitely held back from progress or activity. This could be due to various reasons such as lack of resources, unresolved issues, or pending decisions. For instance, a project can be put on ice if there are budget constraints or if further analysis of its viability is required. Similarly, a plan or idea can be on ice if it is not yet ready for implementation or is waiting for a favorable opportunity.

   The phrase on ice can also be used colloquially to indicate a state of readiness or preparedness. In sports contexts, specifically in hockey, being on ice refers to being actively participating in the game or being present and available for action. It denotes being physically on the playing surface, ready to contribute to the team's effort.

   Overall, on ice implies a temporary cessation, delay, or preparation of a particular activity, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense. It conveys the notion of something being put on hold until circumstances change or resolve.

Common Misspellings for ON ICE

• onice

Etymology of ON ICE

The expression "on ice" originated from the sport of ice skating. Its etymology can be traced back to the late 19th century, when ice skating gained popularity as a recreational activity. In this context, "on ice" simply means performing or participating in an ice-skating event. Over time, the term expanded to encompass various other meanings, such as the suspension or delay of something. For example, when a project is put "on ice", it means that its progress has been temporarily halted or postponed.

Idioms with the word ON ICE

• put sth on ice The idiom "put something on ice" means to delay or postpone something for a later time or indefinitely. It implies temporarily setting aside or reserving a particular plan, project, or idea until a more suitable or opportune moment arises.
• put sm or sth on ice The idiom "put something or someone on ice" means to postpone, delay, or set aside something or someone for a later time. It suggests temporary inaction or suspension until a more suitable situation or opportunity arises.
• hog on ice The idiom "hog on ice" is used to describe someone who is clumsy or unstable on their feet, like a hog (pig) trying to maintain balance on a slippery surface. It implies that the person lacks coordination or control in their movements.
• independent as a hog on ice The idiom "independent as a hog on ice" typically refers to someone who is self-reliant, self-sufficient, and able to function without assistance or guidance. It implies a strong sense of autonomy and the ability to handle any situation with ease and confidence.
• keep (someone) on ice The idiom "keep (someone) on ice" typically means to keep someone waiting or in a state of suspense, often in regards to delaying a decision or action related to them. It suggests that someone is being held in reserve or temporarily set aside until further notice or information is available.
• put (someone or something) on ice The idiom "put (someone or something) on ice" typically means to delay or postpone someone or something for a certain period of time. It can also refer to taking a break from a particular task, project, or situation. The phrase often implies keeping something or someone on hold until further action or decision can be made.
• put something on ice The idiom "put something on ice" means to delay or postpone something for a later time or to temporarily set aside or suspend an idea, plan, or project.
• be on ice The idiom "be on ice" usually means to be temporarily suspended, delayed, or put on hold, often in reference to a plan, project, or decision that has been postponed. It suggests that something is being kept aside or set aside for a later time or further evaluation.
• as accommodating as a hog on ice The idiom "as accommodating as a hog on ice" means someone or something that is extremely uncooperative, awkward, or clumsy. It refers to the difficulty hogs would have trying to navigate or find stability on slippery ice, making them very unaccommodating in such a situation.
• stink on ice The idiom "stink on ice" refers to something or someone that is extremely unpleasant, unsatisfactory, or disreputable. It often implies a strong sense of negativity or failure.
• put on ice The idiom "put on ice" means to postpone, delay, or temporarily set aside an idea, plan, project, or concept for future consideration or further development. It implies keeping something in a state of temporary suspension or holding off until a more suitable or opportune time.
• on ice The idiom "on ice" typically means to postpone, delay, or put something on hold for a period of time. It can also refer to something being kept ready and available for use in the future.
• piss on ice The idiom "piss on ice" is a vulgar expression that means something is unlikely or impossible to achieve. It implies that attempting to accomplish the task would be futile or pointless.