Play hard to get
English Idiom
Meaning: To give the impression that you are not easily available or interested in something or someone. This behavior is often used to create a sense of intrigue or to make oneself seem more desirable.
Origin: The idiom 'play hard to get' is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, particularly in the context of romantic relationships. The phrase captures the strategy of making oneself appear elusive or unattainable, thereby increasing one's appeal. It has since been adopted in various other contexts, including business and social interactions.
Examples
-
Despite her clear interest, she decided to play hard to get, leaving him wondering about her true feelings.
-
The company played hard to get during negotiations, knowing their product was in high demand.
-
By playing hard to get, the actor increased his allure and secured more lucrative roles.
-
She played hard to get, not responding to his messages immediately, which only made him more eager to pursue her.
-
In a clever marketing tactic, the brand played hard to get by limiting the availability of their new product.
-
He played hard to get, declining the initial job offer to negotiate a better salary.
-
The artist played hard to get, making collectors wait months for a chance to purchase his work.
-
During the merger talks, the smaller company played hard to get to push for better terms.
-
She knew playing hard to get would make her seem more mysterious and attractive to potential partners.
-
The politician played hard to get, delaying his endorsement to maximize his influence.