do-or-die

adjective

ˈdü-ər-ˈdī 

-ȯr-

1

: doggedly determined to reach one's objective : indomitable

2

: presenting as the only alternatives complete success or complete ruin

a do-or-die situation

Synonyms of do-or-die

• resolute
• determined
• intent
• decisive

Examples of do-or-die in a Sentence

a do-or-die entrepreneur who never stopped believing that hard work would inevitably lead to success

Recent Examples on the Web

Welcome to the Daily Cup as hosts Tamerra Griffin and Hannah Vanbiber preview the USMNT’s do-or-die knockout match against Bosnia and Herzegovina with The Athletic’s Simon Hughes. — The Athletic, New York Times, 2 July 2026

For much of the match on Friday, Spain lacked better offensive coordination ahead of facing more dangerous opponents in the upcoming do-or-die rounds. — Eduard Cauich, Los Angeles Times, 27 June 2026

Ringo Chiu / Sipa USA via AP Now the team enters the do-or-die knockouts on July 1 in Santa Clara, California. — Mark Hodge, NBC news, 26 June 2026

After that loss, Counsell declined to go with Imanaga in the do-or-die Game 5, which the Cubs lost to end their season. — Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined at sense 1