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

See Examples For:

at stake

Ultimately, the scandal surrounding Peltola is being used as "distractive tactics" to divert voters away from what's at stake, said surgical technologist Zara Oakley, 41.

From Barron's ● Nov. 3, 2026

Instead, it’s a great day to catch up on how we got to this moment, what this election means, and what’s at stake.

From Slate ● Nov. 3, 2026

But the film is a potent, vital document, and what is at stake is considerable.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 29, 2026

A greater good is at stake beyond her own edification.

From Salon ● Oct. 25, 2026

Then again Ged stood still a while; for a man never speaks his own name aloud, until more than his life’s safety is at stake.

From "A Wizard of Earthsea" by Ursula K. Le Guin

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