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

"What is at stake here is the independence of the senate," he said without elaborating.

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

Manifold has less at stake, having spent less than eight months as chairman of BP, a role paying about £1 million a year, equivalent to about $1.35 million.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

The potential money at stake is “a big difference for anyone, especially a low-income person,” said Omeed Firouzi, a professor at Temple University and director of the law school’s low-income taxpayer clinic.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

Who do you want operating on you when your health is at stake?

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

Durufle is said to be outraged, for the convent's reputation is at stake.

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein