Call a bluff
Meaning
To challenge someone to prove a claim or threat that you suspect is untrue or exaggerated.
Origin
The phrase "call a bluff" comes directly from the game of poker, a game that gained immense popularity in the United States throughout the 19th century. In poker, a player "bluffs" by betting aggressively with a weak hand, attempting to convince opponents that they hold a stronger hand and thereby compel them to fold. To "call a bluff" means to meet or raise the bluffer's bet, forcing them to either reveal their weak cards or concede defeat by folding, thus exposing their deception. This tense, confrontational moment at the card table perfectly encapsulated the act of challenging someone's feigned confidence, and the phrase quickly moved beyond the gambling hall to describe any situation where an empty threat or exaggerated claim is directly confronted.
Examples
- When the politician threatened to resign if his demands weren't met, his rival decided to call his bluff, knowing he wouldn't actually step down.
- Sarah suspected her brother was exaggerating about how much homework he had, so she called his bluff and asked to see his assignment list.