step off the edge

USAGE SUMMARY

"step off the edge" is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase to talk about taking a risk or challenging yourself to do something new. For example, "After months of planning, I'm finally ready to step off the edge and launch my own business."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

News & Media

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

One technique (the visual cliff) depends on the evident reluctance of young animals to step off the edge of what seems to be a steep cliff.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"You talk about a cliff, it's extremely sudden and the second you step off the edge you plunge to your death," he said, adding: "We're not going to fall off anything".

The New York Times

As the sleepwalker is just about to step off the edge of the building or be crushed under a cement block, a beam will swing into place or an elevator will open its doors and disaster will be averted.

The New York Times - Tech

"With Jason," said Ms. Dewhurst, "I could make the commitment to O'Neill that allowed me, as Josie Hogan, to step off the edge of the cliff and into an abyss with the firm conviction that there was solid ground around me, in the words, in the actors onstage with me and, of course, in our director, Jose".

The New York Times

Shootin' at imaginary tie fighters is a blast until you dizzily step off the edge of a 4 story building.

TechCrunch

"You talk about a cliff, it's extremely sudden and the second you step off the edge you plunge to your death.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

From here, it's just a matter of psyching yourself up before stepping off the edge.

The Guardian - Travel

One advising, if in doubt wait; another, that without stepping off the edge nothing happens.

The Guardian - Opinion

When Smith stepped off the edge of a soybean field into his prairie strip, he literally took a walk on the wild side.

The Washington Post

Surveillance video footage shows a boy being knocked to the ground by a car immediately after he steps off the edge of a curb.

Los Angeles Times

He once walked out on a plank and almost stepped off the edge when he said, after a particularly bad round in a particularly bad day of weather at a British Open, that he preferred to play more in the calmer weather of the United States tour.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "step off the edge" when you want to convey a sense of risk-taking, crossing a threshold, or making a bold move. This phrase often implies a point of no return.

Common error

Be mindful of the context to avoid literal misinterpretations. Ensure the surrounding text clarifies that "step off the edge" is used metaphorically, not as a description of a physical act.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step off the edge" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used metaphorically to describe initiating a risky or significant action. Ludwig examples show it used in both literal and figurative contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedia

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "step off the edge" is a grammatically correct English expression that signifies taking a considerable risk or making a bold move, often with an element of uncertainty. As Ludwig AI points out, it conveys a sense of crossing a boundary or initiating something potentially dangerous. Usage ranges from literal descriptions to metaphorical implications in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Wiki sources. The phrase is best used when emphasizing the boldness or risk involved in an action, avoiding literal misinterpretations. Related phrases include "take the plunge" and "venture into the unknown". While not overly formal, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take the plunge

Emphasizes decisive action, especially after hesitation.

cross the line

Focuses on violating an established boundary or limit.

go over the brink

Implies reaching a critical point, often with negative consequences.

leap into the abyss

Highlights the uncertainty and potential danger of a decision.

venture into the unknown

Stresses the exploration of unfamiliar territory.

embark on a risky path

Highlights the potential danger or uncertainty.

enter uncharted territory

Signifies moving into unexplored or undefined areas.

take a leap of faith

Underscores trust and hope in the face of uncertainty.

push the boundaries

Highlights challenging or exceeding conventional limits.

go out on a limb

Indicates taking a risk that could result in negative consequences.

FAQs

What does it mean to "step off the edge" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, "step off the edge" means to take a significant risk or make a bold decision, often implying a point of no return or a venture into the unknown. Similar phrases include "take the plunge" or "leap of faith".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "step off the edge"?

It's appropriate when describing situations where someone is making a big commitment or taking a significant risk, especially when the outcome is uncertain. For example, starting a new business or making a major life change.

What are some alternatives to "step off the edge"?

Some alternatives include "go out on a limb", "venture into the unknown", or "cross the line", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "step off the edge" in a sentence?

You could say, "After years of working for someone else, I decided to "step off the edge" and start my own company." or "The artist was willing to "step off the edge" and experiment with new techniques."