Definition of "on the bubble" in English

Prepositional phrase

1. Holding the last qualifying position with qualification still in progress, and thus liable to lose that position.

   • Smith was on the bubble but lost out when Jones was faster by a tenth of a second.

2. Having qualification for an event depend on the upcoming performances of other competitors; hence, at risk of being eliminated, and reversely, being close to qualification; on the verge.

   • The Knights had been on the bubble for the tournament, but played their way in by winning their last five games.

3. Uncertain of success.

   • The new bond issue now appears to be on the bubble, with support eroding.

4. Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see on,‎ bubble.