stick your neck out
Meaning(s)
1. do something that leaves you in a vulnerable position
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
stick your neck out to help someone
Analysis
The idiom 'stick your neck out' is typically used in reference to taking a risk by doing something, often for somebody else, that could cause trouble for you, or some other generally negative outcome. The tone used when saying this expression tends to be one of anger and/or frustration, usually directed towards the person you helped. However, it can be used in a positive sense when used in relation to providing motivation or advice to somebody to take more risks. It is very popular, and is therefore common in both a social and professional context. Phrases with a similar meaning include 'put sth/sb on the line,' and 'go out on a limb.'
Social Examples (Advance)
- Why should I stick my neck out to help her? She has never done anything for me.
- I really stuck my neck out for him when I recommended him for the role. I can't believe he let me down.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- I really stuck my neck out by recommending you for this job. Please don't let me down!
- If you want to get ahead in business, you can't be afraid of sticking your neck out from time to time and taking some risks.