- To take a personal risk, especially by saying or doing something potentially unpopular or dangerous, often to support someone or an idea.
Explanation
Origin
- Likely refers to the vulnerability of an animal like a chicken or turtle extending its neck, making it an easy target.
- Sticking your neck out means exposing yourself metaphorically to danger, criticism, or negative consequences.
- Appeared in the early 20th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Go out on a limb
- Put your ass on the line (Vulgar, emphasizes significant personal risk)
- Lay it all on the line
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Put your balls on the line (Very vulgar, traditionally masculine connotation, high risk)
- Risk your ass
Milder/More Formal:
- Take a calculated risk
- Venture an opinion/suggestion
- Champion a cause/person
- Assume responsibility
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Understood in professional contexts, but the implication of personal risk should be considered.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Highly metaphorical. Ensure learners understand it refers to taking a social, professional, or financial risk, not a physical action.
Examples
- Thanks for sticking your neck out for me in that difficult meeting.
- She really stuck her neck out by challenging the company policy.
- I'm not sure if I want to stick my neck out and invest in such a risky venture.
Dialogue
Layla: I heard you defended my project proposal even though the director was criticizing it. You really stuck your neck out.
Ken: Well, I think it's a strong proposal and deserved support. Someone had to speak up.
Layla: Thank you, Ken. That means a lot to me.
Social Media Examples
- LinkedIn Post: Sometimes leadership means sticking your neck out for your team or an innovative idea, even when it's unpopular. #leadership #courage #innovation
- Tweet: Huge respect for the journalists sticking their necks out to report from dangerous areas. #pressfreedom #journalism
Response Patterns
- (If thanked for doing it): No problem. / It was the right thing to do. / Don't mention it. / Happy I could help.
- (If someone discusses doing it): Are you sure that's wise? / Be careful. / What are the potential downsides? / That's brave of you.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After being thanked:
- Might explain the motivation (I believed in your idea).
- Might downplay the risk (It wasn't that big a deal).
After someone expresses doubt:
- Discussion about the risks versus potential rewards or principles involved.
Conversation Starter
- No. Typically describes or discusses a specific action involving risk.
Intonation
- Stress typically falls on STICKING and NECK.
- Thanks for STICKING your NECK out.
Generation Differences
- Understood and used by most adult generations.
Regional Variations
- Common across all major English-speaking regions (US, UK, Canada, Aus, NZ).