MUST-WIN Definition & Meaning

must-win

[ muhst-win ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a contest, project, scheme, etc., of which a successful or victorious outcome is essential because anything less would negate all preceding efforts:
This game is a must-win for the Tigers, who will be out of the pennant race if they lose.
Her grades were good enough for any college, but she knew the entrance essay was her must-win.

adjective

(of a contest, project, scheme, etc.) requiring a successful or victorious outcome because anything less would negate all preceding efforts:
We’re now in a must-win situation—we either come in with the most attractive bid or we lose the building contract.

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of must-win¹

First recorded in 1985–90; noun use of phrase must win

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

You just kind of lock in, treat it as a playoff game, a must-win, and I’m sure other teams are like that too.”

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This is a must-win game for Ipswich and we're at the stage of the season where form goes out of the window a little.

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“Every game is a must-win for us,” Zubac said.

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This is a should-win because Townsend's team look stronger in most positions, have won the past two against Wales and have home advantage, but it's also a must-win.

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England bowed out of the tournament on Wednesday after losing their must-win clash with Afghanistan by eight runs.

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