Meaning: To try something out cautiously or start an activity on a small scale to test the waters before fully committing.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “I’m not sure if I’ll enjoy yoga, but I’ll dip my toe in the water by taking a beginner’s class.”
- “Before launching the product nationwide, the company dipped its toe in the water with a regional release.”
- “He wasn’t sure about investing in stocks, so he dipped his toe in the water by buying a few shares.”
Origin:
The phrase likely originates from the literal action of testing the temperature of water with a toe before diving in. It evolved into a metaphor for cautious or tentative experimentation in new ventures.