Skin in the game: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Skin in the game” mean?

"Skin in the game" means having a personal stake or investment in a particular situation or outcome.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's not just giving advice, he has skin in the game and stands to lose if things go wrong.

Example

The CEO has skin in the game and is actively involved in the company's operations.

Example

Investors are more likely to trust someone who has skin in the game and is personally invested in the project

Is “Skin in the game” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Skin in the game” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Skin in the game” effectively in context?

You can use "Skin in the Game" to emphasize that someone has a personal interest or investment in a situation, which often implies a higher level of commitment and accountability. Here are three distinct situations where you can use this phrase effectively:

• 1. Business

  The CEO has skin in the game and is actively involved in the company's operations.

• 2. Investment

  Investors are more likely to trust someone who has skin in the game and is personally invested in the project.

• 3. Advice or Recommendations

  He's not just giving advice, he has skin in the game and stands to lose if things go wrong.

Similar phrases to “Skin in the game”:

Put one's money where one's mouth is

To back up one's words with actions or financial commitment

Example

If you truly believe in your idea, you should put your money where your mouth is and invest in it.

Have a vested interest

To have a personal stake or interest in a particular outcome

Example

As a shareholder, I have a vested interest in the company's success.

Walk the talk

To act in accordance with one's words or beliefs

Example

If you want to be seen as a leader, you need to walk the talk and lead by example.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Skin in the game” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Skin in the Game" is attributed to the philosopher and mathematician Nassim Nicholas Taleb. He popularized the concept in his book 'Skin in the Game: Hidden Asymmetries in Daily Life,' published in 2018. The phrase refers to having a personal stake or investment in a particular situation or outcome.

Is “Skin in the game” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Skin in the Game" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation, especially in business and investment contexts. It highlights the importance of personal involvement and commitment in achieving desired outcomes.

What tone does “Skin in the game” have?

"Skin in the Game" conveys a tone of seriousness and responsibility. It suggests that someone is not just making empty promises or offering detached advice but has a personal stake in the situation.

Can “Skin in the game” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Skin in the Game" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is widely understood and accepted in professional environments, as it emphasizes the importance of personal commitment and accountability.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

While "Skin in the Game" is often used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning, it can also be used alone to imply personal involvement and investment. For example, someone might say, 'I have skin in the game,' to indicate their commitment and accountability.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• commitment
• accountability
• involvement
• personal investment
• stake in the outcome

Antonyms

• detachment
• uninvolved
• indifference
• no stake
• lack of commitment