What Does 'Stick One’s Neck Out' Mean? (よく使う英語慣用語句） -N0.517-

What Does 'Stick One’s Neck Out' Mean? (よく使う英語慣用語句)


Introduction:

Have you ever taken a risk to help someone or stood up for an idea that others didn’t agree with? In English, we call that “sticking your neck out.”


1. What Does 'Stick One’s Neck Out' Mean?

"Stick one’s neck out" means to take a risk, often by supporting someone or expressing an opinion that might not be popular. It suggests putting yourself in a vulnerable position for the sake of someone or something you believe in.


2. When to Use It

You use this phrase when someone is doing something brave or risky, especially when they don’t have to—but choose to anyway.


Example:

A: You really stuck your neck out by defending her in the meeting.

B: Yeah, but I felt like someone had to speak up.


3. 日本語の同じような表現

日本語では、「危ない橋を渡る」や「身を挺（てい）する」、「リスクを冒す」などが似た意味になります。誰かのためにリスクを取ったり、自分を犠牲にして行動する場面で使われます。


Conclusion:

Next time you see someone take a bold risk or stand up for something despite the consequences, you can say they “stuck their neck out.” It’s a powerful way to describe courage and commitment in action.
















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