at stake
視情況而定,勝負未定;在危急關頭,危若累卵
Stake n.
1. A piece of wood, usually long and slender, pointed at one end so as to be easily driven into the ground as a support or stay; as, a stake to support vines, fences, hedges, etc.
A sharpened stake strong Dryas found. --Dryden.
2. A stick inserted upright in a loop, eye, or mortise, at the side or end of a cart, a flat car, or the like, to prevent goods from falling off.
3. The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be burned; hence, martyrdom by fire.
4. A small anvil usually furnished with a tang to enter a hole in a bench top, -- used by tinsmiths, blacksmiths, etc., for light work, punching upon, etc.
5. That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked or hazarded; a pledge.
6. Mormon Ch. A territorial division; -- called also stake of Zion.
Every city, or =\“stake,” including a chief town and surrounding towns, has its president, with two counselors; and this president has a high council of chosen men.\= --Schaff-Herzog Encyc.
At stake, in danger; hazarded; pledged. “I see my reputation is at stake.” --Shak.