dip a toe in it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dip a toe in it" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of trying something out or experimenting with a new experience in a cautious or tentative manner. Example: "Before committing to the project, I decided to dip a toe in it by attending a few introductory workshops."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Analysing intersectionality is a much more complex thing and I am not sure we have done much more than dip a toe in it so far.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

But the company, which is releasing the machine with DirecTV and TiVo, is not merely dipping a toe in; it is aiming to make a splash.

The New York Times - Tech

had a robust custom-content business, but until recently, Fast Company only dipped a toe in it.

Forbes

Does it just dip a toe in derivatives or is it chock full of them?

Forbes

While he was still reticent to sign on to the Liberals' sex ed curriculum, Brown didn't even dip a toe in the social conservative fountain when it came to LGBTQ issues or abortion.

Vice

Vine, which Twitter acquired for an undisclosed sum last fall, gives the company the opportunity to dip a toe in one area of the Internet where it has so far failed to gain a footing: video.

The New York Times

Under a cloudless summer sky, I dip a toe in the spring-water organic pool.

Independent

"You can dip a toe in the water or you can dive all the way in".

The New York Times - Sports

I like getting to dip a toe in different worlds.

BBC

Maybe you are unsure about smartwatches and want to dip a toe in for $175.

TechCrunch

Dip a toe in with a pair of lime slingback heels!

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dip a toe in it" when you want to convey a sense of cautious exploration or initial engagement with something new.

Common error

While "dip a toe in it" is a useful idiom, avoid using it excessively in a single piece of writing; vary your language to maintain reader interest and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dip a toe in it" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase, adding color and nuance to express a tentative or cautious approach. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "dip a toe in it" is a common and usable idiomatic phrase that means to cautiously begin something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in news and media. While its register leans toward neutral, it might be too informal for certain professional contexts. For alternatives, consider phrases like "test the waters" or "try it out tentatively". Remember to use the phrase judiciously to avoid overuse and maintain writing clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

test the waters

Similar meaning, but uses a different metaphor related to water.

try it out tentatively

More explicit about the cautious approach.

get your feet wet

Another water-related idiom with a similar meaning.

make a cautious start

Focuses on the beginning phase with caution.

experiment gingerly

Highlights the experimental and careful nature.

probe gently

Implies a careful investigation or exploration.

take a preliminary step

Emphasizes the initial and not definitive action.

scratch the surface

Indicates a very basic or superficial engagement.

enter tentatively

Focuses on the cautious entry into a new area.

dabble in

Suggests a light and infrequent involvement.

FAQs

What does "dip a toe in it" mean?

It means to start something cautiously or tentatively, without fully committing.

How can I use "dip a toe in it" in a sentence?

Example: "Before launching the product nationwide, the company decided to dip a toe in it by testing it in a few select markets."

What are some alternatives to "dip a toe in it"?

You can use alternatives like "test the waters", "try it out tentatively", or "make a cautious start".

Is "dip a toe in it" formal or informal?

It's generally considered informal but acceptable in many contexts, particularly in news and media. Formal situations might call for more direct language, such as "begin cautiously".