at stake: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘at stake’ mean?
The idiom "at stake" means that something is in danger or at risk. It is used to indicate the significance or consequences of a particular situation or decision.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "lay on the line" means to take a risk or be open and honest about something, often exposing oneself to potential danger, criticism, or negative consequences.
The idiom "in the hot seat" means to be in a difficult or uncomfortable position, often under scrutiny or facing intense questioning.
The idiom "in the dock" means to be on trial or facing judgment in a court of law. It is commonly used to describe someone who is accused of a crime or wrongdoing and has to defend themselves in a legal setting.
The idiom "in the cards" means something is likely to happen or is destined to happen.
The idiom "in safe hands" means that someone or something is being taken care of or protected by a trustworthy and capable individual or group.
The idiom "in a bind" means to be in a difficult or challenging situation where there are not many options or solutions available.
The idiom "high-stakes" refers to a situation in which there is a significant potential gain or loss, usually involving a lot of money or important consequences.
The idiom "hang in the balance" means to be in a state of uncertainty or indecision, where the outcome is yet to be determined.
The idiom "hang by a thread" means to be in a very precarious or vulnerable situation, where failure or disaster is imminent.
The idiom "go out on a limb" means to take a risk or to put oneself in a vulnerable position by expressing an opinion or taking an action that is not widely supported or accepted.
Every discussion has consequences
The idiom "at stake" is used in English to convey the idea of something being in jeopardy or at risk. This phrase originated from the world of gambling, where "stakes" referred to the amount of money or valuables wagered on a bet. This usage dates back to at least the 16th century, indicating that the idiom has been part of the English language for centuries.
Today, "at stake" is often used to describe situations where something of value is at risk, such as reputation, relationships, jobs, or even lives. The idiom emphasizes the significance or potential consequences of a particular situation or decision.
For example, imagine a high-stakes negotiation between two rival companies. The outcome of this negotiation could have far-reaching implications for both companies, potentially impacting their financial stability or market position. In this context, one might say that "a lot is at stake" or "the future of the companies is at stake," highlighting the significance and potential consequences of the situation.
Additionally, "at stake" can also be used to refer to personal stakes or individual interests. If someone is trying to convince another person to take a specific course of action, they might say, "Your reputation is at stake here," suggesting that the person's reputation could be negatively affected if they don't make the desired choice.
In essence, the idiom "at stake" serves as a powerful linguistic tool to convey the high level of significance, risk, and potential consequences associated with a particular situation or decision. By using this idiom, speakers and writers can effectively underscore the weight and importance of what is being discussed. It is a testament to the richness and versatility of the English language, where idioms like "at stake" continue to evolve and shape our communication.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "at stake" can be used in a sentence:
1. The future of the company is at stake, so we need to make the right decision.
2. The championship title is at stake in this final match, so both teams are giving it their all.
3. His reputation is at stake if he doesn't provide accurate information to the authorities.
More "Risk" idioms
