Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
play your cards close to the vest
idiom
/pleɪ jɔr kɑrdz kloʊs tu ðə vɛst/
Definition
To keep one’s thoughts, intentions, or plans hidden from others.
Examples
- During the negotiation, she decided to play her cards close to the vest, revealing nothing about her budget.
- He always plays his cards close to the vest, making it hard for anyone to predict his next move.
- In poker, it’s essential to play your cards close to the vest to maintain the upper hand.
Meaning
This idiom means to be secretive about one’s strategies or plans, especially in a competitive situation.
Synonyms
- be secretive
- keep under wraps
- hold one’s cards
- be discreet
