stakes
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the things you can win or lose in a situation, such as your reputation or money.
the potential rewards or risks involved in an action or competition, often used to describe the importance of an outcome.
Simple“The stakes are high in this election because the new laws will affect everyone.”
In context“With the company on the brink of bankruptcy, the stakes for the upcoming merger negotiations could not be higher for the employees.”
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the money that people bet in a game or a race.
the sum of money or property risked on the outcome of a contest or game of chance.
Simple“They were playing poker for very small stakes, just for fun.”
In context“Professional gamblers often prefer tables with high stakes to ensure the potential payout justifies the significant financial risk involved.”
“But when you’re trapped in a metal tube in the sky with no possibility of medical attention, the stakes feel much higher.”
“There is something pleasing about a family saga being continued by the author’s own family – but the stakes are, perhaps, even higher.”