at stake

Idioms  

1. At risk to be won or lost, as in We have a great deal at stake in this transaction. This phrase uses stake in the sense of something that is wagered. Shakespeare used it in Troilus and Cressida (3:3): “I see my reputation is at stake.” [Late 1500s]

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Example Sentences

"It was nice to finish on a high note and we know the importance of every Test match in terms of the World Test Championship," said Smith, with points at stake in Sydney.

From Barron's

Back then, there was more at stake with the nascent women's professional tour, set up by King, fighting for greater legitimacy and prize money.

From Barron's

While the Ashes are secure, Smith said there was still plenty of motivation with World Test Championship points at stake.

From Barron's

Back then, there was more at stake with the nascent women's professional tour, set up by King, fighting for legitimacy and prize money.

From Barron's

If such denials can be made with a straight face, they may carry the day when a prosecution is at stake.

From The Wall Street Journal