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tossup

American  
[taws-uhp, tos-] / ˈtɔsˌʌp, ˈtɒs- /

noun

  1. the tossing of a coin to decide something by its fall.

  2. an even choice or chance.

    It's a tossup whether they'll come or not.


Etymology

Origin of tossup

First recorded in 1740–50; noun use of verb phrase toss up

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.

The reopening has begun, and this should quicken the pace for a potential December rate cut, which is now seen as essentially a 50-50 tossup according to the FedWatch tool provided by CME.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 14, 2025

Whether officials will cut rates again at their Dec. 9-10 meeting is a tossup.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 12, 2025

Powell noted in the press conference that it is a tossup as to whether the Fed raises rates or holds steady in September.

From Reuters • Jul. 28, 2023

The contest is expected to tighten and appears to be a true tossup.

From New York Times • Nov. 11, 2022

If he balks, the matter shouldn't be pushed too hard at the moment—it's a tossup whether you or the Brotherhood has a better claim to the thing.

From Lion Loose by Schmitz, James H.