dip/put/stick a toe in the water

phrase

informal
: to try an activity briefly to see if one likes it
I'm not sure I want to join, but I'd like to dip a toe in the water.

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Cite this Entry

“Dip/put/stick a toe in the water.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dip%2Fput%2Fstick%20a%20toe%20in%20the%20water. Accessed 7 Mar. 2026.

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