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

He warned that the issue doesn’t stop at journalism, with the future of publishing, music and academic research also at stake.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 2, 2026

They put their money at stake and my money is on them.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 1, 2026

"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

If Redemption’s safety was at stake, then it was worth it, this desperate attempt to get them to open their eyes and change their minds.

From "Pet" by Akwaeke Emezi