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

See Examples For:

must-win

Trying to solve Belgium was more difficult than solving Paraguay and the high-pressure, must-win situation of an elimination game against the No. 8 team in the world — and it clearly unsettled the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 12, 2026

A brilliant victory in a pressure-filled, must-win game, but a performance that was beneath them.

From BBC ● Jun. 19, 2026

With everybody else winning, it was a must-win, otherwise they were as good as relegated this weekend.

From BBC ● Apr. 27, 2026

“He’s definitely the guy I’m taking in a must-win game.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 15, 2026

"For us, every match is a must-win from here," said Kotak.

From Barron's ● Feb. 25, 2026