To increase the level of risk or reward in a situation, often in a competitive context.
When do you use "Raise the stakes"?
Use this phrase when discussing situations where the risks or rewards are heightened, such as in competitive environments, negotiations, or when making significant decisions that could lead to dramatic outcomes.
"Raise the stakes" Usage Examples
With the new contract on the line, the company decided to raise the stakes by investing more in marketing.
In the final minutes of the game, the coach raised the stakes by calling an all-out offensive play.
The merger negotiations were tense, as both sides were eager to raise the stakes to secure the best deal.
As the deadline approached, she realized she needed to raise the stakes if she wanted to complete the project on time.
In their rivalry, each team has found ways to raise the stakes, making every match more exciting for the fans.
"Raise the stakes" Explained
The phrase 'raise the stakes' originates from gambling, where increasing the stakes means betting more money, thereby raising the potential rewards or losses. This concept has expanded metaphorically to apply to various competitive scenarios, such as business, sports, and personal challenges, where increasing the stakes can lead to greater consequences and heightened intensity.