stakes
n. C / Un. the things you could win or lose in a situation like a game, a bet, or a big decision. When the stakes are high, the result of what you do is very important.
n. the things that are at risk of being lost or gained in a particular situation, such as a contest, business venture, or conflict. Often used in the plural to describe the level of risk or importance involved.
The stakes are high in this championship game.
With the company facing bankruptcy, the stakes for the upcoming merger negotiations could not be higher.
In international diplomacy, the stakes often involve not just economic stability but the long-term security and sovereignty of entire nations.
Usually plural when referring to the risks or importance of a situation; singular when referring to a specific bet or a physical post.