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Dictionary.com

make a bet

VERB
gamble
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bet speculate wager
STRONG
back brave challenge dare defy endanger face game hazard imperil jeopardize lot play plunge put risk set stake venture
WEAK
buck the odds cast lots cut the cards flip the coin go for broke lay money on put faith in put trust in shoot the moon shoot the works stick one's neck out take a flyer tempt fortune trust to luck try one's luck
Antonyms
STRONG
ascend discourage displace dissuade hide remove rise save
WEAK
be careful design ensure guard insure plan safeguard

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Why make a bet on a basket of commodities, as opposed to energy alone?

From Barron's • Jan. 23, 2026

And I get it, when it’s $30 million, $40 million, $50 million to make a movie, It’s harder to make a bet on a first-time filmmaker.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 10, 2024

If you believe the game will be a high-scoring affair, you might want to make a bet on the total, currently 50.5 points.

From Washington Times • Feb. 10, 2023

If you believe the game will be a high-scoring affair, you might want to make a bet on the total, currently 48.5 points.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 10, 2022

I think I know what I have to do for the old woman, and I make a bet with myself.

From "I Am the Messenger" by Markus Zusak