# lead with one's chin

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/lead-with-ones-chin
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To behave without caution; to make oneself vulnerable.

## Examples

- Don't lead with your chin by criticizing the boss.
- By arguing with the professor before reading the syllabus, he really led with his chin.
- The politician led with his chin when he made such a bold, unverified claim in front of the hostile press corps.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.