What does “Show Your Cards” mean?
"Show Your Cards" means to reveal your true intentions or plans.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
He finally decided to show his cards and admit his true feelings.
He finally decided to show his cards and admit his true feelings.
Example
The negotiator refused to show his cards until the other party made their offer.
The negotiator refused to show his cards until the other party made their offer.
Example
It's important to be cautious and not show your cards too early in a poker game
It's important to be cautious and not show your cards too early in a poker game
Is “Show Your Cards” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Show Your Cards” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Show Your Cards” effectively in context?
You can use "Show Your Cards" to describe the act of revealing your true intentions or plans. It often implies a level of transparency or honesty. For example, if someone has been keeping their feelings hidden, you might say, 'It's time to "show your cards" and let them know how you really feel.'
- 1Relationships
After months of uncertainty, she finally decided to show her cards and admit her true feelings.
After months of uncertainty, she finally decided to show her cards and admit her true feelings.
- 2Negotiations
The negotiator refused to show his cards until the other party made their offer.
The negotiator refused to show his cards until the other party made their offer.
- 3Strategy
In a poker game, it's important to be cautious and not show your cards too early.
In a poker game, it's important to be cautious and not show your cards too early.
Similar phrases to “Show Your Cards”:
Open up
To share one's thoughts, feelings, or secrets
Example
It's important to open up and express how you truly feel.
It's important to open up and express how you truly feel.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Show Your Cards” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Show Your Cards" is unknown.
Is “Show Your Cards” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Show Your Cards" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to encourage others to be honest and transparent about their intentions or plans.
What tone does “Show Your Cards” have?
"Show Your Cards" conveys a tone of honesty and openness. It's often used in situations where someone is encouraged to reveal their true thoughts or feelings.
Can “Show Your Cards” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Show Your Cards" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of being transparent and honest. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as negotiations, presentations, or professional discussions.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He finally decided to show his cards and admit his true feelings.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "show your cards"!' to imply the need for honesty or transparency.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- reveal your hand
- expose your intentions
- be transparent
- be upfront
- be candid
Antonyms
- keep your cards close to your chest
- hide your intentions
- be secretive
- be evasive
