double down

/ˈdʌbəl ˈdaʊn/
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To commit more strongly despite risk or opposition, or to make a special doubled bet in blackjack.

Examples

  • He did not apologize and instead doubled down.
  • Can I double down after splitting the pair?
  • We should not double down on a plan that is clearly failing.
  • The company is doubling down on renewable energy.
  • Will she double down or change course?

Similar words

increase the stake
dig in
stick to one's guns
stand firm
double one's bet
redouble one's efforts

Meanings

Strengthening a commitment

communication
informal
To become more firmly committed to a choice, position, or effort, especially after it has been questioned or has begun to fail.

Examples

  • After the criticism, the mayor doubled down on the policy.
  • The company is doubling down on renewable energy.
  • Will she double down or change course?
  • He did not apologize and instead doubled down.
  • We should not double down on a plan that is clearly failing.

Similar words

Doubling a blackjack bet

gambling
neutral
In blackjack, to double the original bet after seeing the first two cards and receive exactly one more card.

Examples

  • With eleven against the dealer's six, she doubled down.
  • Can I double down after splitting the pair?
  • He doubled down and drew a ten.
  • I never double down when the rules forbid it.
  • The player lost the extra stake after doubling down.

Similar words

Etymology

Formed from double and down. It began as a blackjack term for doubling a bet in return for exactly one more card, then developed the figurative sense of increasing one's commitment.

FAQ

What does double down mean?

To double down usually means to commit more strongly to a choice or position, especially when it is challenged.

Is double down informal?

Yes. The figurative sense is informal but common in news, business, and everyday speech.

Do people say double down on something?

Yes. The usual pattern is double down on a plan, claim, policy, or effort.

What are the forms of double down?

The past form is doubled down, and the -ing form is doubling down.

Where did double down come from?

It came from blackjack, where a player doubles the bet and agrees to take only one more card.

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