Playing your cards close to your chest
Meaning
To keep one's intentions, plans, or resources secret and concealed from others.
Origin
The image of "playing your cards close to your chest" springs vividly from the intense world of card games, especially poker. Imagine a high-stakes table: players carefully gather their dealt hand, holding the precious cards literally pressed against their body. This isn't just for comfort; it's a critical tactical move, a physical barrier preventing any prying eyes from glimpsing the strength—or weakness—of their hand. Any slip, any visible corner, could reveal a crucial piece of information to an opponent. From this literal act of guarding one's hand, the phrase swiftly entered common parlance, evolving into a potent metaphor for anyone who shrewdly conceals their plans, intentions, or true feelings to maintain an advantage or surprise.
Examples
- The CEO was playing his cards close to his chest during the negotiations, revealing very little about the company's next move.
- It's often wise to play your cards close to your chest when you're dealing with competitors, especially in a volatile market.