Take a flier
Meaning
To take a risk or a chance on something, often with uncertain prospects for success.
Origin
The image of a 'flier' has long been associated with something quick, light, and potentially unstable—think of an early, experimental aircraft taking to the sky, or a small, speculative leaflet. In the world of finance, particularly during the speculative boom times of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a 'flier' became slang for a speculative stock or bond. Investors would 'take a flier' on these high-risk, high-reward ventures, much like launching an unproven invention into the air; it might soar to great heights, or it might crash. This colorful analogy cemented the phrase's meaning: to undertake a risky venture, often with limited information, hoping for a significant, albeit uncertain, gain.
Examples
- Despite the high risk, the startup decided to take a flier on the new, unproven technology, hoping for a breakthrough.
- I'm not sure if that stock will perform well, but I think I'll take a flier and invest a small amount, just in case.