What does the idiom walking a tightrope mean?

Walking a tightrope means engaging in a complex or risky situation that requires extreme skill and balance to handle or manage successfully. This phrase often describes precarious scenarios where even a slight misstep can lead to failure or negative consequences.

Here's an example to illustrate the idiom:

> "In competitive markets, balancing cost optimization and innovation is like walking a tightrope. Companies must innovate continuously but also keep spending in check to survive and thrive."

In this sense, "walking a tightrope" represents navigating the tricky path between opposing elements without faltering. Success is not guaranteed, and careful considerations and actions are necessary to stay balanced. The image draws a parallel to professional acrobats skillfully traversing a stretched rope suspended high above the ground.