Bet the farm: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Bet the farm” mean?

"Bet the farm" means to risk everything you have on something.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He decided to bet the farm and invest all his savings in the new business.

Example

She's so confident in her abilities that she's willing to bet the farm on this project.

Example

I wouldn't bet the farm on that horse winning the race

Is “Bet the farm” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Bet the farm” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Bet the farm” effectively in context?

You can use "Bet the Farm" to describe someone taking a significant risk by putting all their resources or assets on the line. It emphasizes the high stakes and potential consequences of the gamble. For example, if a friend is considering investing all their savings in a risky business venture, you might say, 'Are you sure you want to bet the farm on this?'

• 1. Business

  He decided to bet the farm and invest all his savings in the new business.

• 2. Confidence

  She's so confident in her abilities that she's willing to bet the farm on this project.

• 3. Uncertainty

  I wouldn't bet the farm on that horse winning the race.

Similar phrases to “Bet the farm”:

Put all one's eggs in one basket

To risk everything on a single venture or investment

Example

He put all his eggs in one basket and invested all his money in the stock market.

Go all in

To commit fully and take a big risk

Example

She decided to go all in and invest her life savings in her dream business.

Roll the dice

To take a chance or risk

Example

He rolled the dice and quit his stable job to pursue his passion.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Bet the farm” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Bet the Farm" is unknown.

Is “Bet the farm” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Bet the Farm" is not as common as some other idioms, but it is still used in everyday conversation. It is often used in informal settings to describe a situation where someone is taking a big risk.

What tone does “Bet the farm” have?

"Bet the Farm" conveys a tone of risk and uncertainty. It suggests that the outcome is highly uncertain and that there is a lot at stake.

Can “Bet the farm” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "Bet the Farm" is more commonly used in informal settings. It may be less appropriate in formal or professional contexts.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He decided to bet the farm and invest all his savings.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I wouldn't bet the farm!' to express doubt or caution.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• go for broke
• risk it all
• put everything on the line
• take a leap of faith
• play for high stakes

Antonyms

• play it safe
• be cautious
• minimize risk
• take baby steps
• dip a toe in the water