Cards Idioms

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trump card

Meaning: a valuable resource that may be used, especially as a surprise, in order to gain an advantage.

Example: During the trial, the lawyer pulled out a surprise witness as his trump card, completely turning the case around. Read more ➺


ace in the hole

Meaning: a valuable resource or piece of information kept in reserve until it is needed.

Example: In negotiations, he always had an ace in the hole to secure the best deal. Read more ➺


blue chip

Meaning: a stock issued by a well-established, financially sound company with a history of reliable earnings and regular dividend payments.

Example: Investors often seek out blue-chip stocks like Coca-Cola and IBM for their portfolios. Read more ➺


bring to the table

Meaning: making a valuable contribution to a group, company, or individual.

Example: I wish to bring to the table the issue of the current tax regime and how it affects our businesses. Read more ➺


ace up one’s sleeve

Meaning: a powerful, secretive weapon that people can use to their benefit.

Example: "I am wondering how Kellen is going to get her dad to take her on a trip, but I am pretty sure she has an ace up her sleeve." Read more ➺


hold all the aces

Meaning: be in a winning position.

Example: Agriculture-wise, the Green Revolution holds all the aces. Read more ➺


on the cards

Meaning: Something very likely to happen, occur or take place.

Example: A promotion is in the cards for him. Read more ➺


put cards on the table

Meaning: be open and honest

Example: When John met up with Jane on their first date, John laid his cards on the table for Jane to know what he wanted. Read more ➺


keep card close to chest

Meaning: be secretive or cautious, give nothing away

Example: The children did not know where they were to go for their family holiday trip. Their dad kept his cards close to his chest. Read more ➺


a house of cards

Meaning: something that can easily be broken or crumble by itself

Example: The police brought the illegal business down like a house of cards as per the news article but it was a much more planned affair in reality. Read more ➺


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