must-win

American  

[muhst-win] / ˈmʌstˈwɪn /

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.

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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.

Etymology

Origin of must-win

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

Example Sentences

Their home games are going to be crucial to get them to safety, so this almost feels must-win for Scott Parker's side, even at this stage.

From BBC

I lived this during a “must-win” deployment for a major client.

From The Wall Street Journal

The 51-year-old Nuno's attempt to switch to a transitional, counter-attacking style simply hasn't worked - with a must-win match up next against his former club Forest on Tuesday.

From BBC

Watt says he's excited to return for a must-win NFL clash with Baltimore after he was sidelined by a partially collapsed lung in December.

From Barron's

Packers quarterback Jordan Love will miss the matchup against the Ravens due to a concussion and left shoulder injury, but Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson is listed as doubtful for his team's must-win contest due to a back injury.

From Barron's