step out on a limb

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "step out on a limb" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to taking a risk, especially when venturing into uncharted territory. For example, you could say: "Having no prior experience in business, I decided to step out on a limb and start my own company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Now perhaps it is foolish to expect one of the candidates to step out on a limb (a pretty sturdy limb it seems) and stand up for the repeal of DADT, but why did none of the candidates jump into this void and, at the very least, thank the soldier for his service?

The Economist

Jenkins did not exactly step out on a limb.

The New York Times - Sports

"He listens, he hears, and he's willing to step out on a limb and make things happen".

The New Yorker

It's not that Ms. Gillibrand is never willing to step out on a limb as a Democrat from a rural, Republican district.

The New York Times

"I applaud a company that in this climate today will step out on a limb the way the Constitution allows them to," Ms. Cline said in an interview.

The New York Times

We still maintain that Rufus and his ridiculous adult-contempo garbagemusic are the gay, French-Canadian equivalent of David Gray--Ed] I'm going to step out on a limb here and try to offer up something that may be a little mainstream for all you bottom-feeders.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

We stepped out on a limb and enacted a tax cut based on surpluses that were always very vulnerable".

The New York Times

"Nobody wants to be the one who steps out on a limb".

The New York Times - Sports

"I get the feeling that she and Wayne have been talking about stepping out on a limb even more with their music," said Ms. Leonhart's brother, Michael Leonhart, a multi-instrumentalist and singer who also works with Steely Dan.

The New York Times

Whereas in 2005, we were expecting a more neutral equity market with a downside bias, this year we're stepping out on a limb and saying there is going to be rotation away from equity markets into a plethora of other assets.

Forbes

I'm stepping out on a limb to present fantasies that might be seen as old fashioned, icky, maybe masochistic, or not-so progressive.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "step out on a limb" when you want to emphasize the deliberate nature of taking a risk, especially when the potential consequences are significant and readily apparent.

Common error

Avoid using "step out on a limb" for minor or insignificant risks. The phrase implies a considerable degree of vulnerability and potential negative consequences. Save the phrase for the cases where people are consciously going far away from the safest option.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "step out on a limb" functions as an idiomatic expression, used to describe the act of taking a significant risk or expressing an unpopular opinion. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its usage in various contexts, highlighting its role in conveying a sense of vulnerability and potential negative consequences.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Reference

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "step out on a limb" is a common idiom used to describe taking a significant risk or expressing an unpopular opinion. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media contexts. While alternatives like "take a risk" or "stick your neck out" exist, "step out on a limb" uniquely conveys the sense of precarity and potential vulnerability. When using the phrase, ensure the level of risk is substantial, as overusing it for minor situations diminishes its impact. Overall, mastering "step out on a limb" adds color to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go out on a limb

This alternative is nearly identical, with "go" replacing "step", maintaining the core meaning of taking a risk.

take a risk

This is a more general term for exposing oneself to potential loss or harm, lacking the specific imagery of venturing onto a precarious "limb".

take a chance

Similar to "take a risk", this emphasizes the element of uncertainty and potential for a positive outcome.

stick your neck out

This idiom suggests exposing oneself to criticism or danger, emphasizing vulnerability.

make a bold move

Focuses on the decisiveness and confidence behind the action, rather than the inherent risk.

venture

Suggests a bold undertaking with uncertain outcome, carrying a sense of exploration.

put yourself out there

This phrase describes exposing oneself to potential rejection or failure, often in a social or creative context.

gamble

This implies a higher level of risk and a focus on potential gains, often involving speculation.

go against the grain

This implies acting in opposition to prevailing norms or opinions, which may involve risk.

swim against the tide

Similar to "go against the grain", this emphasizes the difficulty and potential resistance encountered when deviating from the norm.

FAQs

What does it mean to "step out on a limb"?

To "step out on a limb" means to take a significant risk, often by expressing an unpopular opinion or making a bold decision where the outcome is uncertain and potential consequences could be negative.

How can I use "step out on a limb" in a sentence?

You might say, "The CEO decided to "step out on a limb" and invest in the unproven technology, hoping it would revolutionize the industry".

What are some alternatives to saying "step out on a limb"?

You can use alternatives like "take a risk", "stick your neck out", or "take a chance" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "step out on a limb"?

Use "step out on a limb" when someone is knowingly taking a risk that could lead to negative repercussions, particularly when they are advocating for something that is not widely supported or accepted. For example: "The politician "stepped out on a limb" by supporting the controversial bill".