when the chips are down
English
Etymology
From the game of poker: chips laid down on the table are staked.
Pronunciation
Audio (UK) (file)
Phrase
when the chips are down
- (idiomatic) When the pressure is on; when the situation is urgent or critical
- He wasn't a very talented musician but, when the chips were down, he played well.
- When the chips are down, you need to make tough decisions.
See also
- in a pinch
- when push comes to shove
- when the gloves come off