all bets are off
Indicates that a future event appears uncertain, especially one that before seemed more certain, and where any prior agreements are no longer valid
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The weather is changing, so all bets are off for our picnic.”
“If the star player gets injured today, all bets are off for the championship.”
“If the main investor pulls out of the project tomorrow, all bets are off regarding our expansion plans.”
“Once the two companies failed to sign the contract by midnight, all bets were off and they both started looking for other partners.”
“Now that the city has changed the zoning laws, all bets are off regarding the price we originally offered for the house.”
“With the sudden resignation of the lead negotiator, all bets are off, and the entire peace agreement must be reconsidered from the beginning.”
disputed origin
Originally used by sports bookmakers, and in particular horseracing. The bookmaker is not taking any more bets and all existing bets placed on the competition are now null and void. This may have been because the race was cancelled, the starting lineup was substantially changed, or due to an irregularity in the conduct of the race.
- 01
best bet
The best proposal or plan.
- 02
bet one's boots
To be absolutely sure of something; to be certain enough to wager an essential possession.
- 03
bet one's bottom dollar
To be absolutely sure of something; to be certain enough of something to wager everything.
- 04
bet the farm
To be absolutely certain, to have no doubts.
- 05
bet the house
Synonym of bet the farm.
- 06
bet the ranch
Synonym of bet the farm.
- 07
hedge one's bets
To reduce the risk of making a mistake by keeping one's options open.
- 08
you bet
Expresses support, agreement, certainty or emphasis.
Last updated August 10, 2026