let the chips fall where they may

Idioms

No matter what the consequences, as in I'm going to tell the truth about what happened, and let the chips fall where they may. This metaphoric term alludes to chopping wood and is usually joined to a statement that one should do what is right (that is, the woodcutter should pay attention to the main task of cutting logs and not worry about small chips). [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He said, “My philosophy is do the right thing and let the chips fall where they may… History judges us for what we do. This is a critical time right now.”

From Slate • Apr. 22, 2024

"As a democracy, Israel has the right to choose its own leaders, and we should let the chips fall where they may," Mr Schumer said.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2024

“So, it’s unfortunate we have to do that, but we are going to put aside $1 million and let the chips fall where they may on that.”

From Washington Times • Dec. 5, 2023

"I go and lay it out there, and let the chips fall where they may," she said.

From Reuters • Sep. 8, 2023

As you told me that first day out here, son, it's your job to hew to the line and let the chips fall where they may.

From The Honorable Senator Sage-Brush by Lynde, Francis

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023