# put one's cards on the table

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/put-ones-cards-on-the-table
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reveal one's true intentions, beliefs, feelings, or other previously concealed facts about one's situation; to speak frankly.

## Examples

- It is time to put your cards on the table.
- During the meeting, the manager finally put her cards on the table about the company's financial problems.
- Rather than continuing with these vague negotiations, he decided to put his cards on the table and explain exactly what he expected from the partnership.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.