ENGLISH
REFERENCE

let the chips fall where they may

idiom
Meaning

To allow events to unfold naturally; to accept what occurs without prejudice, worry, or regret.


Origin

disputed origin

Originally a woodcutting metaphor (in full, “hew to the line and let the chips fall where they may”), but now often associated with poker chips.

Examples
SIMPLE

I told the truth and let the chips fall where they may.

CONTEXTUAL

I decided to tell my boss about the mistake and let the chips fall where they may.

COMPLEX

After presenting the uncomfortable evidence to the board, he accepted the consequences and let the chips fall where they may.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    buy to let

    To purchase a property as in investment, and to let it out for rental instead of living in it

  2. 02

    cash in one's chips

    To discontinue an activity, accepting whatever gains or losses one has incurred; to give up.

  3. 03

    catch a falling knife

    To buy a financial instrument whose price is falling rapidly.

  4. 04

    chip away

    To reduce or weaken bit by bit; often used with at.

  5. 05

    chip in

    To make a contribution; help in a small way; especially, to pay for a part of something.

  6. 06

    chip off the old block

    Someone who takes after one of their parents; (generally) a person similar to another.

  7. 07

    chip on one's shoulder

    A habitually combative attitude, usually because of a harbored grievance, a sense of inferiority, or a desire to prove something.

  8. 08

    chip shot

    Something that is easy to do or to achieve.

Last updated April 17, 2026