lead with (one's) chin

lead with (one's) chin

1. Literally, to approach an opponent with one's chin thrust out, thus making it easier to be hit. The cocky fighter led with his chin, daring the underdog to take a swing.
2. By extension, to do or say something aggressively and without caution. The venture capitalist, famous for leading with his chin when it comes to securing investments, is being investigated for fraud and money laundering.
See also: chin, lead
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

lead with one's chin

Take a risk, behave without caution. For example, Gordon always says exactly what he thinks; he never minds leading with his chin. This term alludes to a boxer leaving his chin, a vulnerable point, unprotected. [Mid-1900s]
See also: chin, lead
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.

lead with your chin

mainly BRITISH
If someone leads with their chin, they behave very aggressively, causing a fight or argument. We don't plan to attack the administration for not spending more on education. There's nothing to be gained from leading with our chins. Note: This expression comes from boxing, and refers to a boxer fighting with their chin sticking out, making it easy for their opponent to hit it.
See also: chin, lead
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.

lead with your chin

behave or speak incautiously. informal
This expression originated as mid 20th-century boxing slang, referring to a boxer's stance that leaves his chin unprotected.
See also: chin, lead
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • lead with one's chin
  • lead with your chin
  • take (something) on the chin
  • take it on the chin
  • take on the chin
  • take something on the chin
  • chin up
  • chuck (one) under the chin
  • chuck under the chin
  • keep (one's) chin up