Those on narrow margins

tinanam01021. Why is "on narrow margins" and not "in narrow margins"?
2. Can pliable be replaced by flexible?

I read it as "[working] on narrow margins."

We often say "working ON a certain basis." Working on commission; working on overtime; working on piecework.
Prepositions are crazy. Living on welfare; living off welfare.

Hi Avangi,

I understand youI noticed you have provided two examples:

Living on welfare

Living off welfare

Are they the same meaning?

Thanks again

Tinanam

Yes, they actually mean about the same thing.

Depending on context, "off" may have a pejorative sense. "Living off the government."

But we also say, "He's on the government dole."

People who intend it as a criticism are more likely to use "off."

On vacation, on time, on schedule, on narrow profit margin. These usages are idiomatic which can not be explained by grammar rules.

Definitely not pliable, perhaps flexible.

Hi Dimsumexpress,

Thank you for reminding me of idioms. I haven't practiced English lately due to my new job.

Have a wonderful Year 2011.

Tinanam

Good luck on your new job. I wish I could have one

Both "pliable" and "flexible" are possible, in your original sentence, but the sense differs, as Avangi says:

1. The workers are flexible.

- this suggests that the workers are willing to co-operate, when working hours are decided, conditions changed, etc.

2. The workers are pliable.

- this much less usual (possibly noticeably so) formation suggests that the wo

Hi MrPedantic,

Thank you for your help.

Have a very great day.

Tinanam

You're welcome!

Have a pleasant week,

MrP