“Double Down” Meaning, Origin and Examples

Last updated on October 16, 2024 by Liam Daniel

When you hear the phrase “double down,” it often brings to mind someone sticking firmly to a decision or belief, even when it’s challenged. In this reference, you’ll explore the meaning of “double down” and its origins.

You’ll also see examples of how the phrase can fit into conversations or statements. This helps you identify alternative ways to communicate the same idea. You will also find a picture to help illustrate the concept further.

Double Down Meaning, Origin and Usage

Key Takeaways

  • “Double down” means to increase effort or risk in a situation or argument, even when you know the outcome may be negative or a mistake.
Double Down Meaning
Double Down Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Double Down Meaning

“Double down” means to put forth additional effort or take a bigger risk in a situation or argument, even when you know the outcome might be a mistake or lead to a negative result. It implies sticking to your course of action despite potential consequences or setbacks, often with a sense of stubbornness or increased determination.

Origin of this Idiom

This helpful English idiom originates from the game of blackjack, which has been around and played in many variations since 1601. Players are dealt cards and attempt for those cards to add up to 21 or as close to 21 as possible to beat a dealer. Players make a bet and then are dealt two cards. Before any additional cards are dealt to the player, the player can choose to double their bet based on the two cards already in their hand. This became known as “double down,” creating a greater risk for them to lose more money if they did not win.

Usage of “Double Down”

Here are some examples of how “double down” can be used:

  1. In the context of taking more risk or effort:
    • “Despite the criticism, the politician decided to double down on his controversial stance.”
  2. In a business decision:
    • “The company doubled down on its marketing strategy, even after the initial campaign failed.”
  3. In personal determination:
    • “She doubled down on her fitness goals after missing a week at the gym.”
  4. In an argument or disagreement:
    • “Instead of backing off, he doubled down on his argument, refusing to admit he was wrong.”
  5. In sports or competition:
    • “After falling behind in the game, the team doubled down and played even harder.”

Related Terms to “Double Down”

  • “Go all in” – To fully commit to a course of action or decision.
  • “Dig in your heels” – To refuse to change or back down, becoming even more determined.
  • “Bet the farm” – To risk everything on one course of action.
  • “Commit fully” – To completely dedicate yourself to something.
  • “Raise the stakes” – To increase the risk or intensity of a situation.
  • “Stand your ground” – To hold firm to a position or belief despite opposition.
  • “Take a bigger risk” – To increase the level of risk or commitment.
  • “Stay the course” – To continue with a plan or effort despite difficulties.
  • “Redouble your efforts” – To increase effort or determination after a setback.
  • “Go for broke” – To risk everything in the pursuit of success.

Other Ways to Say “Double Down”

Like most phrases, the phrase “double down” can be said in several different ways to convey the same meaning.

Some of the other things you could say include:

  • I’m going to stick to my guns.
  • I am going to dig in my heels.
  • I am going to raise the stakes.

“Double Down” Examples

Examples in Statements

A statement made by a police officer after arresting a wanted suspect.

  • “Although he refused to come out of the house when we told him we would release the dog, he decided to double down and stay inside.”

A statement made on a radio show when a guest was asked a question about his recent efforts.

  • “Even though our efforts did not pay off the first time, that is not proof it won’t work. We are going to double down our efforts and try again.”

Examples in Conversations

A conversation between two friends regarding one’s marriage.

  • Friend 1: Is the counseling helping your relationship at all?
  • Friend 2: I don’t know, to be honest. It seems like it is helping, but the counselor says it will take time.
  • Friend 1: I am sure it will, but I am also sure it will be okay as long as you guys love each other enough to get through it.
  • Friend 2: We do and that is why we are both committed to double down our efforts and make it through this rough patch.

A conversation between two co-workers.

  • Co-worker 1: This project seems to be going in the wrong direction.
  • Co-worker 2: I don’t know. I think if we double down and keep going, the project will be completed successfully.
Latest posts by Liam Daniel (see all)