take the plunge

idiomatic phrase

informal

: to do or undertake something especially after a period of hesitation or uncertainty

Up to now, I've avoided growing roses … . But last winter the ripe catalogue shots of roses took hold in my imagination, and I decided to take the plunge.

—Michael Pollan

As with any new OS upgrade, it is prudent to wait awhile before taking the plunge, to make sure others have had a chance to find all the bugs.

—Peter H. Lewis

If you've considered buying an e-reader but haven't yet taken the plunge, there's no longer a need to wait.

—Joshua J. Romero

Examples of take the plunge in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Check out the first story here: And the second story, which shows off the double balconies, as well as the huge terrace off to the side: Feeling inspired to purchase a tiny vacation house or take the plunge into full-time minimalism? —Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2024

The exact nature of which show or shows and how many episodes would be behind the paywall is still to be determined, and also depends on the talent’s willingness to take the plunge. —Caitlin Huston, The Hollywood Reporter, 24 Oct. 2024

Applied to a medium length mane with big, pronounced waves, this shade of blonde chosen by Kendall Jenner is perfect for those who want to finally take the plunge with this color, but don't want to risk too much. —Arancha Gamo, Glamour, 20 Oct. 2024

Kate Hudson took the plunge in a black ensemble while attending the launch of fine jewelry brand Ophelia Eve at Maxwell Social in New York on Oct. 9. —Violet Goldstone, WWD, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above