Bet: meaning, definitions and examples

Also used in everyday language as a synonym for 'sure' or 'confident'.

• I bet you'll love this movie.
• You can bet that she will arrive on time.

A formal or less common term for placing a bet, often used in legal or structured environments.

• He placed a wager on the horse race.
• They made a wager to see who could lose more weight in a month.

Used when taking a risky action where the outcome is uncertain, often with a negative connotation due to potential for loss.

• He likes to gamble at the casino.
• Investing in that new company was a big gamble.

Used when someone has something of value at risk, often in a more formal or serious context.

• She has a lot at stake in this business deal.
• What’s at stake if the project fails?

Commonly used in daily conversation to imply taking a risk on an outcome, often informally. It can also be used in a more literal sense related to placing money on an event.

• I bet you can't finish that pizza by yourself.
• Do you want to bet on the football game tonight?

More specific to risking something valuable, usually money, on an uncertain outcome. Often has a negative connotation because it can imply irresponsibility or addiction.

• She decided to gamble her savings at the casino.
• Investing in this startup is a big gamble.

Formal and often related to specific rules or agreements usually involving money. It is often used in legal or professional contexts.

• He placed a wager on the outcome of the boxing match.
• You can wager a small amount on the dice game.

Involves investing a significant amount of something valuable, such as money or time. It is usually used in more serious or high-stakes situations, often with a higher perceived risk.

• He has a large stake in the success of this project.
• She staked her reputation on the outcome of this deal.