# all bets are off

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/all-bets-are-off
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Indicates that a future event appears uncertain, especially one that before seemed more certain, and where any prior agreements are no longer valid

## Examples

- 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.

## 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. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.