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Definitions

out on a limb

PHRASE
in trouble
Synonyms
WEAK
chancy dangerous exposed liable on the spot open perilous precarious risky shaky up a tree

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Publishing a forecast that differs significantly from competitors’ amounts to throwing your weight behind a strong trading recommendation, so many economists hesitate to go out on a limb.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Better to have politicians and experts who study the pressing issues of the day and go out on a limb rather than shrug their shoulders.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 10, 2025

In addition cowriting, Lopez goes out on a limb and takes the role of what can rightly be called “Me,” a husband-hunter jailed in such metaphorical music-video scenarios as “glass house” and “love factory.”

From New York Times • Feb. 22, 2024

What McNulty said in August: "I'm going out on a limb a bit here but I have a feeling we will see a very strong Aston Villa this season."

From BBC • Jan. 11, 2024

Rowan knew he was out on a limb with Volta.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman