All the marbles Meaning in English
expression
Definición
This expression means that everything important is at stake and the outcome will decide the winner or the most important prize. It is often used for competitions, games, or situations where one event decides everything.
Uso & Matices
Almost always informal or conversational. Used when a final decision or event determines the overall winner or outcome. Common in sports, game shows, and business contests. Not about literal marbles; it's an idiom. Sometimes shortened to "for all the marbles."
Oraciones de Ejemplo
This last game is for all the marbles.
basic
They played the championship for all the marbles.
basic
Whoever wins this round gets all the marbles.
basic
It's the final pitch—this one's for all the marbles.
natural
When it comes to negotiating the contract, we're playing for all the marbles.
natural
Don't mess up now—it's for all the marbles!
natural