Origin:
The phrase is believed to have originated in the 17th or 18th century and refers to the literal danger of being in a forest.
* Woods were often considered dangerous places due to wild animals, bandits, and the potential for getting lost.
* Once a person was safely out of the woods, they were considered safe.
Over time, the phrase has become metaphorical and is used in a variety of contexts to describe any situation where there is still uncertainty or risk.
Example:
"The company has made some progress, but we're not out of the woods yet. There are still some financial challenges to overcome."
Similar Idioms:
* We're not in the clear yet.
* We're not home free yet.
* The coast is not clear yet.
These idioms all express the same idea that there are still potential risks or challenges ahead.