risking it all

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "risking it all" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a situation where someone is taking a significant risk or making a bold decision that could lead to great loss or gain. For example, "She was willing to leave her job and move to a new city, risking it all for her dream." Alternative expressions include "putting everything on the line," "going all in," and "taking a leap of faith."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

You've got to admire him for risking it all to make an exuberantly bonkers comic-book movie.

The Guardian - Film

So I want you to hear this from me: I'm not risking it all to let you down.

The Guardian - Music

He did not see risking it all as losing it all .Exposure" should be compulsory reading for company directors and MBA students.

The Economist

" 'Leak' overturns once and for all the romantic, popular interpretation of the Watergate saga of one inside source risking it all to save democracy," Mr. Shafer writes.

The New York Times

From risking it all with a pouncing lion to breaking off a piece of a priceless Italian statue, some will risk it all just for a stunning snap.

Independent

Beth Greenberg's serviceable production has returned, and once again that Prince Calaf is risking it all for a date with Puccini's ultimate ice queen.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

I risked it all".

The New York Times - Sports

He would risk it all".

The New Yorker

"You risk it all," she said.

The Guardian

Adrian decided to risk it all.

The New York Times - Tech

A photographer has to be willing to risk it all.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "risking it all" to add emphasis to situations where the potential consequences are significant, either positive or negative.

Common error

Avoid using "risking it all" in contexts where the potential loss is minimal, as it can create an exaggerated and melodramatic effect. For instance, consider alternatives when describing a minor inconvenience or a low-stakes decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "risking it all" functions as a verbal phrase, often serving as part of the predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of exposing oneself to significant potential loss, as confirmed by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "risking it all" is a versatile verbal phrase used to describe situations involving high stakes and potentially significant consequences. As confirmed by Ludwig, the expression is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, including news, media, and even academic analyses. While its register is generally neutral, the phrase effectively communicates the gravity and boldness of a decision. When using the phrase, ensure it aligns with the magnitude of the situation to avoid exaggeration. Alternatives such as "staking everything" or "going for broke" can offer nuanced variations, depending on the context you intend to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

staking everything

Focuses on the act of wagering or committing all available resources.

going for broke

Emphasizes a complete commitment with potentially high stakes.

putting everything on the line

Highlights the potential for loss or significant negative consequences.

betting the farm

Implies risking one's entire livelihood or most valuable possession.

laying it all on the line

Similar to 'putting everything on the line' but with a slightly more emphatic tone.

taking a gamble

Focuses on the uncertain nature of the outcome.

going all in

Borrowed from poker, emphasizing complete commitment to a venture.

plunging in headfirst

Highlights the impetuous and enthusiastic nature of taking the risk.

taking a leap of faith

Emphasizes the trust and lack of concrete evidence supporting the decision.

chancing everything

Highlights the act of taking a chance with no guarantee of success.

FAQs

How can I use "risking it all" in a sentence?

You can use "risking it all" to describe a situation where someone is making a high-stakes decision with potentially significant consequences. For example: "She was "willing to" leave her job and move to a new city, risking it all for her dream."

What are some alternatives to "risking it all"?

Some alternatives include "staking everything", "going for broke", or "putting everything on the line". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuances you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "risking it all" in formal writing?

While "risking it all" is widely understood, it may be perceived as slightly informal for certain academic or business contexts. Consider alternatives like "committing all resources" or "accepting a high level of risk" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "risking it all" and "taking a chance"?

"Risking it all" implies a higher level of potential loss and a greater degree of commitment compared to simply "taking a chance". "Risking it all" suggests that everything of value is at stake, whereas "taking a chance" may refer to a more calculated or less consequential decision.