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all bets are off. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
all bets are off, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
all bets are off in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
all bets are off you have here. The definition of the word
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all bets are off, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
Originally used by sports bookmakers, and in particular horseracing. The bookmaker is not taking any more bets and all existing bets placed on the competition are now null and void. This may have been because the race was cancelled, the starting lineup was substantially changed, or due to an irregularity in the conduct of the race.
Pronunciation
Phrase
all bets are off
- (idiomatic) Indicates that a future event appears uncertain, especially one that before seemed more certain. Any prior agreements are no longer valid.
- (idiomatic, by extension) Anything can happen; any previous preconceptions about what might happen are dismissed.