Etymology Journal · G
Go out on a limb
Meaning
- To take a risk by supporting an unpopular idea or making a bold prediction. It implies you are in a precarious position because you have left the safety of the main trunk.
Bold, cautious
Used in a sentence
- I am going to go out on a limb and say this team wins the championship this year.
- It was a big risk to go out on a limb and hire him without a reference.
- I don't like to go out on a limb without all the facts first.
The backstory
This metaphor dates back to the 19th century. It describes the literal danger of a person or animal climbing out onto a tree branch that might not support their weight.
Heard in
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