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Out on a Limb

What Does "Out on a Limb" Mean?

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"Out on a limb" is an English idiom. It means "in a vulnerable or precarious position; taking a risk or standing alone in an opinion or action."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "out on a limb" used in a sentence:
  • She felt like she was out on a limb when she voiced her disagreement with the company's decision.
  • He went out on a limb by investing in the startup, hoping for future success.
  • Taking a stand against the majority opinion meant going out on a limb.
meaning for out on a limb

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Out on a Limb" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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