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English Idioms

    Games

    Understanding idioms related to games can add a playful and dynamic edge to your conversations about leisure and competition. Our curated list of game idioms offers precise definitions, practical examples, and audio pronunciations to aid your learning. Mastering these idioms will help you discuss various aspects of games and competition with greater fluency. Explore the origins of these idioms to gain valuable cultural insights and deepen your understanding. Incorporate these idioms into your conversations to enhance your expressiveness and confidence. Start learning game idioms today to make your English more engaging and vibrant.
    Idiom Meaning and Examples
    Play by ear

    Meaning:

    To handle a situation in a flexible and spontaneous manner without a specific plan. It involves making decisions as you go along rather than following a predetermined strategy.

    Examples:

    • When their original plan fell through, they decided to play by ear and figure out the details as the day went on.
    • The CEO often plays by ear during meetings, adapting her strategies based on the team's input.
    • During the road trip, they didn't book hotels in advance but chose to play by ear, finding places to stay along the way.
    Meaning and Examples of the "Play by ear" idiom
    Play hardball

    Meaning:

    To adopt a tough, uncompromising, and often aggressive stance to achieve a goal. It implies a readiness to use any means necessary to win or succeed, even if they are harsh or ruthless.

    Examples:

    • In the negotiations, the company decided to play hardball, refusing to compromise on any of their demands.
    • When it comes to closing deals, she knows how to play hardball and ensure her interests are protected.
    • The prosecutor played hardball, presenting the jury with undeniable evidence that left no room for doubt.
    Meaning and Examples of the "Play hardball" idiom
    Play it by ear

    Meaning:

    To approach a situation without a set plan, using improvisation or creativity to deal with circumstances as they arise. It often involves adapting to unexpected changes and making decisions spontaneously.

    Examples:

    • When the power went out during the presentation, we had to play it by ear and continue without the slides.
    • Sarah didn't prepare a speech for the wedding and decided to play it by ear, speaking from her heart in the moment.
    • The weather forecast was uncertain, so we decided to play our beach plans by ear and see how the day developed.
    Meaning and Examples of the "Play it by ear" idiom
    Play second fiddle

    Meaning:

    To take a subordinate role to someone else, often by supporting or assisting them rather than being in the spotlight. It involves accepting a position of lesser prominence or power.

    Examples:

    • Despite her significant contributions, she always felt like she was playing second fiddle to her more charismatic colleague.
    • In the family business, Greg was content to play second fiddle to his older brother, who had always been the face of the company.
    • Even though she was a talented researcher, she often played second fiddle to the more experienced scientists on her team.
    Meaning and Examples of the "Play second fiddle" idiom
    Play your cards right

    Meaning:

    Make the best decisions and take the right actions to achieve a successful outcome. It's about being strategic and making the most of the opportunities that come your way.

    Examples:

    • If you play your cards right at the interview, you might just land the job of your dreams.
    • She knew that if she played her cards right, she could convince the board to approve her innovative proposal.
    • By playing his cards right, John managed to secure a promotion within just six months of joining the company.
    Meaning and Examples of the "Play your cards right" idiom
    Win hands down

    Meaning:

    To achieve something effortlessly or with very little competition. It suggests a victory that is clear and decisive, leaving no doubt about the outcome.

    Examples:

    • In the debate competition, Sarah won hands down with her compelling arguments.
    • The new smartphone from TechCorp won hands down in the user satisfaction survey.
    • Despite the tough competition, the team won hands down in the finals.
    Meaning and Examples of the "Win hands down" idiom