play (one's) cards close to (one's) chest



play (one's) cards close to (one's) chest

To keep one's plans, intentions, or tactics secret from everyone else. Refers to holding one's playing cards close to one's chest in a card game, so as not to allow other players to see one's hand. We're all curious about what the boss has been discussing in those meetings with the lawyers, but she's playing her cards close to her chest. Sorry for not being more straightforward about my plans, but I'm playing my cards close to my chest for the time being.
See also: card, chest, close, play

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Kelley['keli]
ArnbjÖRg-Ancient Scandinavian, Icelandic
JordynJAWR-dinEnglish (Modern)
Sanders['sændəs]
Chris[kris]
OdaO-dah (German)German, Ancient Germanic