must-win

[ muhst-win ]

noun

1. a contest, project, scheme, etc., of which a successful or victorious outcome is essential because anything less would negate all preceding efforts:

   This game is a must-win for the Tigers, who will be out of the pennant race if they lose.

   Her grades were good enough for any college, but she knew the entrance essay was her must-win.

adjective

1. (of a contest, project, scheme, etc.) requiring a successful or victorious outcome because anything less would negate all preceding efforts:

   We’re now in a must-win situation—we either come in with the most attractive bid or we lose the building contract.

Word History and Origins

Origin of must-win¹

First recorded in 1985–90; noun use of phrase must win

Example Sentences

Ohio is a must-win swing state for Republicans if they are to reclaim the White House.

From The Daily Beast

Virginia, considered a must-win state for Mitt Romney, will be a leading indicator, he added.

From The Daily Beast

The point is that America is clearly and inevitably growing more diverse—especially in a handful of must-win swing states.

From The Daily Beast

In a state that's a must-win for Mitt, a conservative third-party candidate could throw the election to Obama.

From The Daily Beast

This would be a must-win for Christie if he hopes to run for president in 2016.

From The Daily Beast