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To take a risky or daring position in support of something, often when others disagree.
She went out on a limb by investing all her savings in the startup.
She took a big risk by investing all her savings in the startup.
He went out on a limb to defend his controversial idea during the meeting.
He boldly supported his controversial idea despite potential backlash.
Often implies acting without full support or evidence. Can be used positively or critically depending on context.
Use 'go out on a limb' when someone takes a risky position that might lead to criticism or failure. It's stronger than 'take a risk' and implies being alone in your position.
This is an idiom - the literal meaning (climbing a tree branch) is completely different from the figurative meaning (taking a risk). Never use it to describe actual tree-climbing.
First recorded in the early 19th century. The phrase combines the literal image of climbing onto a precarious tree branch with the figurative sense of taking a vulnerable position. The 'limb' here refers to a branch, not a human limb.
Common in both casual and professional contexts. Often used when someone defends an unpopular opinion or makes a bold decision. Can imply either admirable courage or foolish recklessness depending on context.