double down
verb

- to engage in risky behavior, especially when one is already in a dangerous situation

- to strengthen one's commitment to a particular strategy or course of action, typically one that is potentially risky

- to become more tenacious, zealous, or resolute in a position or undertaking

- to double the original bid in blackjack in exchange for only one more card

Oxford English Dictionary, Cambridge Dictionary, Merriam-Webster

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WORD ORIGIN

The phrase “double down” originates from the world of gambling, specifically from the card game blackjack, where “doubling down” is a strategic move where a player doubles their initial bet in exchange for agreeing to receive only one more card. The term implies taking on additional risk in hopes of a greater reward.

The etymology of "double down" lies in this gambling context, but over time, the phrase evolved beyond blackjack. By the late 20th century, it began to be used more broadly in everyday language. Now, it refers to the act of intensifying one’s efforts or commitment, especially after a setback or challenge.

Its metaphorical use has grown, particularly in business, politics, and sports, where it symbolizes reinforcing a stance, decision, or strategy even in the face of adversity.

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EIGHT SHADES OF DOUBLE

- double back = to return to a previous point or path, often retracing one's steps.

- double Dutch = incomprehensible language

- double whammy = twice bad luck

- double-cross = to trick someone

- double bind = a difficult dilemma

- doublethink = holding two contradictory beliefs at the same time

- double talk = talking in a deliberately vague manner

- double take = to take a second look

- double bubble = a generous overtime bonus

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SYNONYMS

accelerate efforts, add fuel to the fire, affirm strongly, all in, amplify, back your play, be determined, bear down, bet big, bet harder (the farm), boost (efforts), build upon, commit fully (further), compound, concentrate efforts, crank up the pressure, deepen commitment, defend vigorously, dig deeper, dig in (heels), DOUBLE DOWN, double bet, double it, double one's original bet, double the bet (the stakes), drive home, escalate, exert more pressure, firm up, focus harder, fortify position, full steam ahead, go all in (for broke, harder, the whole hog), have a shot, heighten, hold firm (ground), increase ante (commitment, investment, stakes), intensify (efforts), knuckle down, lay it on thick, maintain position, persist, pile on, plunge deeper, press forward (harder), push ahead (harder), put more chips on table, raise the stakes (the ante), ramp up, recommit, redouble efforts (commitment, resolve), reinforce commitment (resolve), reiterate, restate, renew focus (commitment), repeat, reiterate, retrench, risk it, take a big risk, stand firm (ground), stay the course, step up/ramp up efforts, stick to your guns, strengthen position or fortify position, throw good money after bad, take a big risk, toughen up, up the ante (the game)

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SMUGGLE OWAD into a conversation today, say something like:

“DOUBLING DOWN on open communication is important to strengthen relationships.”

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