- To commit to a significant course of action, especially one that involves risk, uncertainty, or a major life change.
- Often used after a period of hesitation.
Explanation
Origin
- Evokes the image of diving headfirst into water (taking the plunge).
- This literal meaning extended metaphorically to diving into any significant undertaking or commitment, like marriage, a new job, or a big investment.
- Used since the mid-19th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Pull the trigger. (Make a final decision, often implies action after delay, can apply to smaller decisions too)
- Jump in with both feet. (Commit fully and enthusiastically)
Milder/More Formal:
- Decide to proceed.
- Make the commitment.
- Embark on...
Situational Appropriateness
- Generally acceptable in most contexts, informal to semi-formal.
- Suitable for sharing personal news or discussing decisions.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Learners might initially think of literal diving.
- Explain the metaphorical meaning of committing to a big decision.
Examples
- They dated for five years before finally taking the plunge and getting married.
- After years of thinking about it, she took the plunge and quit her job to start her own business.
- Are you going to buy that house? Yes, we decided to take the plunge!
Dialogue
Sarah: Guess what? I finally enrolled in that coding bootcamp!
Mike: Wow, you took the plunge! That's awesome! Are you excited?
Sarah: Yeah, a bit nervous, but mostly excited to finally do it!
Mike: You'll do great!
Social Media Examples
- Post: Big news! After months of searching, we finally took the plunge and bought our first home! 🏡 #homeowners #adulting
- Tweet: Thinking of moving abroad... should I take the plunge? 🤔 #travel #expatlife
- Instagram caption: [Photo of couple with engagement ring] She said yes! We're taking the plunge! ❤️💍
Response Patterns
- Usually met with positive reactions: Congratulations!, That's exciting!, Good for you!
- Sometimes curiosity: Wow! What made you decide?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone announces they've taken the plunge:
- People often ask for details about the commitment. When's the wedding? / Tell me about the new business!
- The person who took the plunge usually shares their excitement or plans.
Conversation Starter
- Yes.
- Can be used to announce a major decision, thus starting a conversation about it. Guess what? We took the plunge!
Intonation
- Often said with a sense of decision, excitement, or perhaps slight nervousness.
- Stress usually on take and plunge. We decided to TAKE the PLUNGE!
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.