high stakes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "high stakes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation that is risky or has potentially significant consequences. For example, "The job interview was a high stakes situation, as it could decide the course of my career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

"It's high stakes.

The New York Times

"It's high stakes," he acknowledges.

Independent

High stakes entailed high risks.

The New York Times

With really high stakes".

The Guardian

High stakes indeed.

The Guardian

"It's high stakes stuff.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Sumo is both high-stakes and hierarchical.

The New York Times - Travel

It was certainly a high-stakes play.

The New York Times - Sports

High-stakes academic testing isn't going away.

The New York Times - Magazine

High-stakes testing is damaging education.

The Guardian - Opinion

She's used to high-stakes performances.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "high stakes" to emphasize the potential for significant gains or losses. It is particularly effective when describing situations involving risk, competition, or decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "high stakes" when the situation is merely complex or challenging, but lacks genuine risk of substantial negative consequences. Ensure a clear possibility of significant loss or failure for the phrase to be appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "high stakes" functions as an adjective modifying a noun (often implied or stated), indicating that the situation, game, or endeavor involves significant risk, potential reward, or consequences. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "high stakes" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe situations involving significant risk or potential consequences. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is frequently found in news media and business contexts, serving to emphasize the importance and potential impact of a given situation. Alternatives like "significant risk" or "considerable consequences" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Understanding the scope of the risk is key to using the phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

significant risk

Focuses on the element of danger and potential loss.

considerable consequences

Highlights the potential impact and ramifications of a situation.

serious implications

Emphasizes the weighty and far-reaching effects.

grave importance

Underscores the critical nature and significance of the matter.

critical juncture

Highlights a decisive point where the outcome matters greatly.

do or die situation

Presents a scenario where success or failure has ultimate consequences.

all-or-nothing gamble

Emphasizes the binary nature of the potential outcome.

high-pressure situation

Shifts the focus to the stress and intensity of the circumstances.

moment of truth

Highlights a critical instant that will reveal the final outcome.

pivotal moment

Indicates a turning point with lasting significance.

FAQs

How can I use "high stakes" in a sentence?

You can use "high stakes" to describe situations with significant potential consequences, such as "The negotiation was "high stakes", with the company's future on the line".

What are some alternatives to saying "high stakes"?

Alternatives include "significant risk", "considerable consequences", or "serious implications", depending on the specific context.

Is "high stakes" formal or informal?

"High stakes" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the communication.

What does it mean when something is described as "high stakes"?

It means that the outcome of the situation carries significant potential consequences, either positive or negative. There's a considerable amount at risk.