let the chips fall where they may
To allow events to unfold naturally; to accept what occurs without prejudice, worry, or regret.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I told the truth and let the chips fall where they may.”
“She speaks her mind and lets the chips fall where they may.”
“We plan the party but let the chips fall where they may.”
“I decided to tell my boss about the mistake and let the chips fall where they may.”
“I will apply for the promotion today and let the chips fall where they may regarding the extra work.”
“You should submit your honest feedback to the committee and let the chips fall where they may.”
“The coach decided to play the youngest athletes in the final game and let the chips fall where they may regarding the final score.”
“After presenting the uncomfortable evidence to the board, he accepted the consequences and let the chips fall where they may.”
Originally a woodcutting metaphor, the full expression advised one to hew to the line and let the chips fall where they may. It suggests the woodcutter’s focus remains strictly upon the accuracy of the stroke, treating the resulting debris as a matter of total indifference.
- 01
buy to let
To purchase a property as in investment, and to let it out for rental instead of living in it
- 02
cash in one's chips
To discontinue an activity, accepting whatever gains or losses one has incurred; to give up.
- 03
catch a falling knife
To buy a financial instrument whose price is falling rapidly.
- 04
chip away
To reduce or weaken bit by bit; often used with at.
- 05
chip in
To make a contribution; help in a small way; especially, to pay for a part of something.
- 06
chip off the old block
Someone who takes after one of their parents; (generally) a person similar to another.
- 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.
- 08
chip shot
Something that is easy to do or to achieve.
Last updated August 10, 2026