# skin in the game

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/skin-in-the-game
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A stake; something at risk, especially with regard to money and investments.

## Examples

- You should have some skin in the game before you invest.
- I feel more motivated now that I have skin in the game.
- Does the new partner have any skin in the game?
- The manager wants the team to have skin in the game so they work harder on the project.
- The consultant offered to work for free until the company made a profit, proving he had real skin in the game.
- Local residents want the developer to buy a house in the neighborhood so he has skin in the game too.
- The politician promised to use his own savings to fund the community center, showing the voters that he finally had some skin in the game.
- Investors are often more cautious when they have significant skin in the game, as their own capital remains at risk if the venture fails.

## Origin

The origin of the phrase is uncertain, though common attribution points toward the investor Warren Buffett. Buffett himself has denied originating the term. Despite this lack of confirmation, the expression has remained fixed to his public persona and investment philosophy.

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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.