Go out on a limb

Definitions

• take a risk or make a bold decision
  To go beyond the usual or safe course of action in order to achieve something or take a chance on something despite potential risks or consequences.

• make a statement or claim that is not supported by evidence or popular opinion
  To express an opinion or belief that is not widely accepted or supported by others, often resulting in criticism or ridicule.

Examples of Go out on a limb

• The sales executive decided to go out on a limb and present a bold new marketing strategy to the CEO, despite the risks involved.

  This idiom is used to describe taking a risk or making a bold move, even if it may put you in a vulnerable position. The phrase "go out on a limb" comes from the image of a branch extending from a tree, where an animal might venture out into space, making it more susceptible to danger. By using this idiom, the speaker is emphasizing the courage and confidence required to take a daring action.

• The politician went out on a limb by speaking out against the popular opinion on the issue, but her conviction earned her respect from her constituents.

  This example illustrates how taking a risk can sometimes pay off, even if it's not immediately apparent. The politician's decision to go against the prevailing viewpoint may have initially been met with criticism, but her steadfastness ultimately earned her admiration.

• The entrepreneur went out on a limb by investing all his savings into his startup, but the gamble paid off when the company became a huge success.

  This example highlights the potential rewards of taking a calculated risk. The entrepreneur's decision to put everything on the line may have been nerve-wracking, but the potential payoff was worth the gamble.

• The athlete went out on a limb by attempting a daring maneuver during the competition, but the move backfired and resulted in a costly mistake.

  This example shows the downside of taking a risk. The athlete's bold move may have been exciting to watch, but it ultimately led to a misstep that hurt her performance.

• The student went out on a limb by volunteering to give a presentation in front of the entire class, despite her severe stage fright.

  This example demonstrates the courage required to take a risk, even in the face of personal fears or insecurities. The student's decision to confront her anxiety and speak in front of her peers is a testament to her bravery and determination.

Conclusion

The idiom "go out on a limb" can be used in two main ways. The first is to describe taking a risk or making a bold decision, often in pursuit of a goal or desired outcome. This can include going beyond the usual or safe course of action and taking a chance on something, even if there are potential risks or consequences involved. The second usage is to describe making a statement or claim that is not supported by evidence or popular opinion, often resulting in criticism or ridicule.

In both cases, the underlying intention of the idiom is to convey the idea of taking a leap of faith or going against the norm. It can also suggest a sense of vulnerability and being exposed, as the phrase "out on a limb" refers to being on the outer branches of a tree, away from the safety of the trunk.

Origin of "Go out on a limb"

The origin of the idiom "go out on a limb" is believed to come from the practice of harvesting fruit from trees. In order to reach the most ripe and desirable fruit, farmers would have to climb out on the thin, outer branches of the tree. This required taking a risk and being vulnerable, as the branches could easily break under the weight of the person.

Over time, this literal meaning of taking a risk or being vulnerable evolved into a figurative expression used to describe any situation where someone is taking a chance or going against the norm. The idiom has been in use since at least the early 19th century and is still commonly used today in both literal and figurative contexts.