“illuminate the issues at stake” meaning0;•68 %28svgla �% Redn pms,gen71. Roa_o x
One of the examples used for the meaning of the word "illuminate" in Cambridge dictionary is:
to explain and show more clearly something that is difficult to understand:
an article which illuminates the issues at stake
I looked up the phrase 'at stake' online and I know it means at risk, but I still can not understand the meaning of the whole phrase.
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Did you mean "... but I still cannot understand the meaning of 'illuminates the issues at stake'"? Please edit your post to clarify. – Em.♦ 9 hours ago
2 Answers
The phrase 'issues at stake' is idiomatic, which is what makes it hard to understand. Its meaning is similar to 'undecided questions' or 'unresolved conflicts'. To 'illuminate the issues at stake' means to explain the various perspectives involved in the questions or conflicts.
The phrase 'at stake' relates to this meaning because one side of the conflict is 'at risk' of losing or some answer to the question is 'at risk' of being considered incorrect.
“Stake” comes from card games and gambling, where the “stake” is the prize or the pot.
What has been put in the pot (what is at stake) will be won or lost.
Examples
when the police arrest you, your freedom is at stake.
“With Brexit looming, the future of Ireland is at stake”
USA Today / Yahoo News
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1I think OP meant "... but I still cannot understand the meaning of 'illuminates the issues at stake'"? I left a comment requesting clarification. – Em.♦ 9 hours ago