Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
play into someone's hands
idiomatic expression
/pleɪ ˈɪntuː ˈsʌmwʌnz hændz/
Definition
To act in a way that unwittingly helps someone, usually an opponent or adversary.
Examples
- If you keep arguing with him, you’re just playing into his hands.
- By revealing her strategy, she played right into her opponent’s hands.
- Don’t let them provoke you; that would only play into their hands.
Meaning
When you play into someone’s hands, you are doing something that makes it easier for them to succeed, often giving them an advantage without intending to.
Synonyms
- fall into a trap
- assist an opponent
- help the enemy
