Question

Can someone explain what "go out on a limb" means?

2023-06-25

This is what goPenpal answered

"Go out on a limb" is an idiomatic expression that means to take a risk or act boldly on a belief, even if it's unpopular or unconventional. It originates from the literal act of a person climbing a tree and going out on a limb, a risky action due to the possibility that the branch may break. Similarly, when someone chooses to 'go out on a limb,' they are venturing into potentially dangerous territory, may it be emotionally, mentally, or even professionally. They are standing up for something they believe in, even though others might not share the same view. It's a risk, and just like the tree climber, the person who chooses to 'go out on a limb' is setting themselves up for the potential to fall. But it's a chance they are willing to take, embracing the full essence of that age-old saying – 'no risk, no reward.'

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