English Explanatory Dictionary

when the chips are down

English dictionary entry

Meanings

phrase
  1. When the pressure is on; when the situation is urgent or critical.

Pronunciation

En-uk-when_the_chips_are_down.ogg En-au-when the chips are down.ogg

Word forms

when the chips are down

Etymology

From the game of poker, in which chips laid down on the table are staked.

Related words

in a pinch when push comes to shove when the gloves come off
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