With a serious tone:
* The future of the company is at stake if we don't secure this new contract. (This implies a high level of importance and potential danger.)
* Their lives were at stake when the fire broke out. (This implies a situation with significant danger.)
With a more casual tone:
* My pride is at stake if I lose this game. (This implies a more personal and less serious situation.)
* I'm willing to put my reputation on the line, everything is at stake here. (This implies a strong belief in something, but not necessarily a life-or-death situation.)
With a figurative meaning:
* The future of the planet is at stake if we don't address climate change. (This implies a major issue with global consequences.)
* The very fabric of our democracy is at stake. (This implies a very important and foundational principle.)
Remember: "At stake" implies something of value, importance, or significance that could be lost or jeopardized.