Homonym: stakes (Risks)
Stakes refer to the potential risks or rewards involved in a situation, often influencing decisions and actions. In various contexts, such as business, sports, or personal relationships, understanding the stakes helps individuals assess what they stand to gain or lose. Higher stakes usually mean greater consequences, which can motivate people to act more cautiously or aggressively.
In gambling, for example, stakes represent the amount of money wagered on a game or bet. The higher the stakes, the more significant the potential payout or loss. This concept can also apply to politics, where the stakes might involve public opinion, policy changes, or election outcomes.