play one's cards right

Idioms are generally defined as groups of words that form a meaningful whole when they come together, even though the words in them do not make sense on their own. They have produced many idioms according to their own cultural characteristics in communities using the English language. What does play one's cards right mean? In what situations is play one's cards right used?

Meaning of "play one's cards right"

Meaning

The phrase “play one's cards right” is often used to refer to taking advantage of opportunities or making the best possible decisions in order to achieve success. It can also be used to refer to taking calculated risks in order to achieve the desired outcome. It is a metaphor for making the most of the resources available to you.

Etymology

The phrase “play one's cards right” originated from the game of cards and the need to identify and play the best hand in order to win. This principle was extended to other areas of life as a metaphor for making the most of the resources available to you.

Usage

The phrase “play one's cards right” is often used in everyday conversation to refer to making the right choices in order to get what you want or taking the right steps to achieve your goals. It is also often used as a warning or reminder to someone to make sure they are doing the right things in order to succeed.

Example Sentences

• If you play your cards right, you could get the job.
• If you want to get that promotion, you need to play your cards right.
• If you want to win the competition, you have to play your cards right.
• You have to be strategic if you want to play your cards right.

Idioms with similar meaning

"Don't judge a book by its cover" is an English idiom that means you shouldn't make assumptions about someone or something based solely on its appearance. In Japanese, the similar idiom is "Hana yori dango," which translates to "Dumplings rather than flowers." This idiom means that substance is more important than appearance.