risk it for the biscuit
risk it for the biscuit (assonance)
/rɪsk ɪt fɔr ðə ˈbɪskɪt/
Meaning
- To take a risk in hopes of obtaining a reward.
- To engage in a daring act to gain recognition within a community.
- To accept potential failure for the opportunity to achieve a goal.
Example Sentences
- He decided to risk it for the biscuit by investing in the startup.
- She knew she had to risk it for the biscuit to win the competition.
- They chose to risk it for the biscuit and take the uncharted path.
- Despite the dangers, he would risk it for the biscuit to achieve his dreams.
- The team agreed to risk it for the biscuit to secure the championship.
Origin and History
The idiom “risk it for the biscuit” suggests taking a chance to achieve a desired reward. Its catchy rhyme has made it popular in various contexts, but its exact origin remains somewhat ambiguous.
Possible Origins
1970s Advertising Campaign
Some believe the phrase originated from a 1970s advertisement for Swisskit chocolate bars, which used the slogan “I’ll risk it for a Swisskit.” This catchy tagline may have influenced the development of the idiom.
Irish Newspaper Headline
An Irish newspaper headline from 1966 read “Risked it for a Biscuit,” though it’s unclear if this was a common phrase or creative wordplay by the writer.
Literary Appearance
The phrase appeared in Leonard Hugh’s 1979 book “Home Before Night,” where characters used it in dialogue, indicating its colloquial use at the time.
Linguistic Features
The phrase showcases assonance, with the similar sounds in “risk it” and “biscuit,” contributing to its memorable and rhythmic quality.
Cultural Adoption
In the 1980s, the idiom gained traction in street culture, hip-hop, and rap music, further embedding it into popular vernacular.
Synonyms
- take a leap of faith
- go out on a limb
- bet the farm
- roll the dice
- throw caution to the wind
Variants
- risk it for a biscuit
- risk it to get the biscuit
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