number games
A numbers game: the use of inappropriate statistics (numbers) to reflect a desired result (usually misleading).
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The company uses number games to hide their low profits.”
“The manager tried to justify the budget cuts with clever number games, but the staff knew the reality was much worse.”
“By manipulating the quarterly data through various number games, the executive board successfully misled the shareholders about the true state of the failing enterprise.”
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away game
An athletic contest played away from the team's home field.
- 02
back in the game
Having recovered from a disadvantageous position.
- 03
blame game
A situation in which people attempt to blame others rather than trying to resolve a problem.
- 04
call someone's number
To focus on someone, asking them to prove themselves.
- 05
change the game
To revolutionize a field of endeavor.
- 06
do a number on
To damage, especially to a significant extent; to treat harshly; to produce ill effects in.
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fair game
Actions permissible by the rules.
- 08
for the love of the game
Doing something for one's own enjoyment or other intrinsic desire to do so; not for other reasons such as money or other ulterior motives.
Last updated August 10, 2026