put your head on the block

put (one's) head on the block

To assume or expose oneself to some risk, danger, or responsibility; to imperil oneself or put oneself in harm's way; to risk damaging one's reputation as the result of doing something. Look, I'm putting my head on the block for you here. I could get fired if they find out what we're up to! You have to take some risks to be successful in business and in life, but don't put your head on the block for no good reason.

See also: block, head, on, put

put your head on the block

or

put your neck on the block

If you put your head on the block or put your neck on the block, you risk your reputation or position by taking a particular course of action. When the Prime Minister called a by-election in his own constituency, he put his head on the block. He really put his neck on the block there and it's great to see his bravery being rewarded. Note: You can also say that you put your head on the chopping block. I'm not going to be the one who puts my head on the chopping block. Note: The `block' here is a special piece of wood on which a prisoner was made to place his or her head before being beheaded.

See also: block, head, on, put

put your head (or neck) on the block

put your position or reputation at risk by proceeding with a particular course of action. informal

This phrase alludes to the block of wood on which a condemned person was formerly beheaded.

See also: block, head, on, put

put/lay your head/neck on the block

risk defeat, failure, etc.; put yourself in a situation where you might be blamed, criticized, etc: The government laid its head on the block and said that if it loses this vote in Parliament tonight it will call an election. ♢ I’m prepared to put my neck on the block and promise that the new building will be ready by the end of the year.In the past when people were executed (= killed as a punishment), they had to lay their head on a block so that it could be chopped off.

See also: block, head, lay, neck, on, put