What does the expression "on the bubble" mean?

The meaning of the expression "on the bubble" is about being on the threshold; it is focused on the fine balance between success and failure. It is the last or among the last to qualify for the last competitive position(s) in a competition such as a car race or a spot for a place on a professional team roster.

This U.S. expression seems to have originated in the car racing community. In particular, it is the aficionados of the Indianapolis 500 race. The first citation or use of the expression can be found in a report on the 1970 running of that race. The Lima News, May 1970 stated:

"On the 'bubble' is rookie Steve Krisiloff whose 162.448 m.p.h. was the slowest qualifying speed last weekend. With only six spots open, Krisiloff's auto racing machine would be ousted if seven cars qualified at a faster speed this weekend."

The qualifying event at Indianapolis is now known as 'Bump Day' or 'Bubble Day'.

More Info: en.oxforddictionaries.com

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10 Comments

Merri Sillery

Could also be the person that just missed coming in last in a race. IMHO this is a poorly done question.

sftcw

Although I got it right. I think the "right" answer is poorly worded. A person on the bubble means he/she is in a situation where there a good chance of either making it or not making it.

Suzanne Wilson

I've not heard of this expression before. Possibly because I'm Australian?

billyboy915

Leapy Lee, It's not very American. I have never heard or used this expression in my entire life! Don't be so quick to point fingers simply because you don't know something.

Leapy Lee

Yet another obscure Americanism?

Pat Salloum

Sounds like the term comes from the use of a level; right on the bubble is good!

Rajnish Gautam

Basically it relates to racing event. Don't agree with answer.

Jo Farrell

On the Bubble in the UK, particularly London means going out on the bear or as we say,”a night out on the bubble”.

Randy Pender

In poker " on the bubble " is the last person to not get paid , the last person to not earn a place in the tournament payout , maybe it is different in auto racing but surely confusing , and yes I know , don't call you Shirley ....