Stick your neck out

Meaning: To take a risk by saying or doing something that might be criticized, rejected, or have negative consequences, especially when you defend someone or express a strong opinion ↔ prendre un risque, s’exposer en défendant quelqu’un ou en exprimant une opinion qui peut être mal reçue.

/stɪk jɔːr nek aʊt/

[ stik your NEK out ]

Usage note: This idiom is informal and common in spoken English. It often implies courage or loyalty, but it can also sound slightly critical if the risk seems unnecessary or unwise. Use it when someone accepts personal risk for an idea, a prediction, or another person.

Video

Dialogue

Manager: “I’m going to stick my neck out and recommend you for the promotion, even though some people think you’re too young for the role.”
Employee: “Thank you, I really appreciate you trusting me.”
Manager: “Just make sure you prove them wrong. I don’t stick my neck out for everyone.”
Employee: “I won’t let you down.”

Etymology

The expression is based on the image of an animal (for example, a turtle) literally sticking its neck out of its shell, making itself more vulnerable to danger. It has been used figuratively in English since at least the early 20th century to describe taking personal risks for a decision, opinion, or person.

Audience

When to use: Use this idiom in everyday conversation, workplace discussions, and informal business contexts when someone takes a personal or professional risk, especially to support someone or to make a bold prediction. It is suitable for emails or meetings where a slightly conversational tone is acceptable, but it is usually avoided in very formal, legal, or highly technical writing.

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