All Bets Are Off
Definition:
The agreement is canceled or the prior terms no longer apply due to changed circumstances. Originating from the world of gambling, it is commonly used in everyday language to depict uncertain outcomes or situations that have become unpredictable.
Similar Terms, Idioms, and Expressions:
- The game’s afoot: An old expression indicating that something exciting or significant is in motion.
- All hell breaks loose: Used when chaos erupts.
- Throw a wrench in the works: When something disrupts a plan.
- Up in the air: If something is uncertain or undecided.
- The ball is in your court: It’s now up to the other party to take action.
Synonyms:
- Off the table
- Null and void
- Out of the question
- Not a given
- No guarantees
Antonyms:
- Signed, sealed, delivered
- Done deal
- Certain
- Etched in stone
- Foregone conclusion
Humorous Quote:
“Predictability is like a pet turtle–slow, steady, and out of nowhere, it flips on its back and all bets are off.” – Fictional character from “The Uncertainty Chronicles.”
Proverb:
“When the winds of change blow, all bets are off.”
Suggest Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Books:
- “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller: A story where conditions are constantly changing for the protagonist.
- “The Road” by Cormac McCarthy: A journey through an unpredictable post-apocalyptic world.
- Movies:
- “Inception”: Navigating dreams within dreams where predictability is out the window.
- “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl”: Adventure and unpredictability on the high seas.
- Songs:
- “Without a Fight” by Brad Paisley feat. Demi Lovato: Reflects the turmoil and unpredictability of relationships.
- “Twist and Shout” by The Beatles: A joyous ode to letting go and expecting the unexpected.
### What does "all bets are off" mean?
- [x] The agreement is canceled or uncertain.
- [ ] The gambling table is full.
- [ ] Someone won a bet.
- [ ] The odds are in favor.
> **Explanation:** "All bets are off" means that previous agreements or expectations no longer apply because the situation has become unpredictable.
### Which other expression means a situation has become chaotic?
- [x] All hell breaks loose
- [ ] Cat’s meow
- [ ] Quiet as a mouse
- [ ] Saved by the bell
> **Explanation:** When "all hell breaks loose," it describes a scenario where everything becomes chaotic, thus similar to "all bets are off."
### True or False: "Etched in stone" is a synonym for "all bets are off"
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "Etched in stone" means something is permanent and unchangeable, which is the opposite of "all bets are off."
### Choose the idiom that conveys something unpredictable:
- [ ] Etched in stone
- [ ] Smooth sailing
- [x] Up in the air
- [ ] Hand in glove
> **Explanation:** "Up in the air" suggests that an outcome is uncertain or unpredictable, akin to "all bets are off."
In closing, always remember to embrace life’s uncertainties. They add flavor to our existence. Until our next idiomatic adventure, may your life be full of expected twists and joyous unpredictabilities.
- G. E. Gambit
