stick (one's) neck out


stick (one's) neck out

To personally assume or expose oneself to some risk, danger, or responsibility; to imperil oneself or put oneself in harm's way. Look, I'm sticking my neck out for you here. I could get fired if they find out what we're up to! You have to take some risks to be successful in business and in life, but don't stick your neck out for no good reason.See also: neck, out, stick

stick one's neck out (for someone or something)

Fig. to take a risk. Why should I stick my neck out to do something for her? What's she ever done for me? He made a risky investment. He stuck his neck out for the deal because he thought he could make some big money.See also: neck, out, stick

stick one's neck out

Make oneself vulnerable, take a risk, as in I'm going to stick my neck out and ask for a raise. This expression probably alludes to a chicken extending its neck before being slaughtered. [Colloquial; early 1900s] See also: neck, out, stick

stick your neck out

COMMON If you stick your neck out, you say something which other people are afraid to say, even though this may cause trouble for you. First of all, I'll stick my neck out here and I will say that Aston Villa won't go into the Second Division next season. At the risk of sticking my neck out, I doubt whether the attempt will be successful. Note: This expression may come from boxing, where fighters need to keep their necks and chins drawn in or protected in order to avoid being hit by their opponent. See also: neck, out, stick

stick your neck out

risk incurring criticism, anger, or danger by acting or speaking boldly. informal 1969 Bessie Head When Rain Clouds Gather Things are so bad that if anyone sticks his neck out for a refugee, he's not likely to get promoted for five years. See also: neck, out, stick

stick your ˈneck out

(informal) do or say something which other people are afraid to do, and as a result attract attention or trouble: Joe stuck his neck out at the meeting; he told the boss that the new sales policy wasn’t working.See also: neck, out, stick

stick (one's) neck out

Informal To make oneself vulnerable; take a risk.See also: neck, out, stick