Cool MateMeaning of When the chips are down
A phrase meaning that true priorities or character emerge during difficult times.
In simple words: When things get tough or serious.
When the chips are down in a sentence
- She showed her true colors when the chips were down.
- People often reveal their real friends when the chips are down.
- You can count on him; he’s always there when the chips are down.
How to use When the chips are down
Commonly used in conversational English to express that in difficult situations, true character or priorities are revealed. More appropriate in informal contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone phrase
Memory hint
Imagine chips falling down when you're losing in a game, symbolizing challenges ahead.
Related words
Collocations with When the chips are down
- show true character
- reveal true friends
- emerge strong
- count on someone
- face challenges
Synonyms for When the chips are down
- in tough times
- when it matters
- in a crisis
- under pressure
- when faced with challenges
Common mistakes with When the chips are down
- Used in formal contexts where it's too casual.
- Misunderstood to refer to gambling rather than challenging situations.
- Incorrectly believed to mean being in a good situation.
When the chips are down appears in
When the chips are down in other languages
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Frequently asked questions about When the chips are down
What does When the chips are down mean?
When things get tough or serious.
What is the definition of When the chips are down?
A phrase meaning that true priorities or character emerge during difficult times.
How do you use When the chips are down in a sentence?
She showed her true colors when the chips were down.
Can you give another example of When the chips are down?
People often reveal their real friends when the chips are down.
What are synonyms for When the chips are down?
Common alternatives include in tough times, when it matters, in a crisis, under pressure, when faced with challenges.
What words go with When the chips are down?
It commonly pairs with show true character, reveal true friends, emerge strong, count on someone, face challenges.
What are common mistakes when using When the chips are down?
Used in formal contexts where it's too casual. Misunderstood to refer to gambling rather than challenging situations. Incorrectly believed to mean being in a good situation.
How do you pronounce When the chips are down?
US: //wɛn ðə tʃɪps ɑr daʊn//, UK: //wɛn ðə tʃɪps ɑː dаʊn//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
Is When the chips are down formal or informal?
"When the chips are down" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.
When should I use When the chips are down?
Commonly used in conversational English to express that in difficult situations, true character or priorities are revealed. More appropriate in informal contexts.