A sure thing
Something that is certain to happen or succeed; a bet that is almost guaranteed to win.
All bets are off
A situation has changed so much that any previous agreements or predictions are no longer valid.
To bet on a long shot
To wager on something with a very low probability of winning but a high potential payout.
To hedge your bets
To reduce your risk of loss by making multiple bets or investments, often on opposing outcomes.
A dark horse
An underdog or a competitor who is not expected to win but who could surprise everyone.
To call someone's bluff
To challenge someone to prove that their claims are true, believing that they are lying or exaggerating.
To play your cards close to your chest
To be secretive and not reveal your plans or intentions to others.
To have an ace up your sleeve
To have a secret advantage or a powerful resource that you can use when needed.
When the chips are down
In a difficult or crucial situation; when things are at their worst.
To be a wild card
To be an unpredictable factor or a person whose actions are difficult to foresee.
To hit the jackpot
To achieve a great success or to win a large sum of money unexpectedly.
To stack the deck
To unfairly manipulate a situation to your own advantage.
To play for high stakes
To be involved in a situation where the potential outcomes, both good and bad, are very significant.
To show your hand
To reveal your intentions, plans, or advantages to others.
To hold all the aces
To be in a very strong or dominant position.
