英语博客-北美风情 195、To go out on a limb
Maura: Now, this is an interesting expression, to go out on a limb, but there is a possible origin or a connection to trees.
Harp: Yes, because on a tree, a limb is an open, exposed branch, so it’s like one of the arms of the tree.
Maura: Exactly. And if you’re an animal who lives in trees and goes out on a limb, I mean actually goes on a limb, it’s a dangerous place to be because you’re exposed and maybe a hunter or a predator or someone who wants to get you could get you because they can see you.
Harp: Yes, definitely. Or the limb could break because it’s too weak.
Maura: Right. So that’s another danger when an animal goes out on a limb; the limb could break and the animal could fall to the ground. So going out on a limb actually is dangerous.
