show one's cards
To reveal something known to oneself but previously concealed from others, especially regarding one's own plans or resources.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He refused to show his cards during the negotiation.”
“The candidate waited until the final debate to show his cards regarding his tax policy.”
“By revealing his true intentions too early, the diplomat inadvertently showed his cards, allowing his rivals to prepare a counter-strategy.”
- 01
abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
- 07
air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026