一触即発
いっしょくそくはつ (isshoku sokuhatsu)
On the verge / On the brink
Example 1Basic Example
国境での緊張が一触即発の状態だ。
Tensions at the border are on the verge of erupting.
Example 2Applied Example
両軍がにらみ合い、一触即発の緊張が走る。
The two armies stared each other down, on the verge of battle.