Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
save one's own neck / save someone's neck
idiomatic expression
/seɪv wʌnz oʊn nɛk / seɪv ˈsʌmˌwʌnz nɛk/
Definition
To protect oneself from danger or trouble; to prevent oneself from facing serious consequences, often by helping someone else escape a difficult situation.
Examples
- He made a deal with the boss just to save his own neck.
- Helping her friend with the project was a way to save both their necks.
- Sometimes you need to take action to save someone’s neck before it’s too late.
Meaning
This phrase emphasizes the idea of self-preservation, as well as the act of assisting someone in avoiding a problematic circumstance, which might also involve some risk to the helper.
Synonyms
- protect oneself
- look out for oneself
- rescue
- help out
- aid someone
