# bluff

/ˈbɫəf/ (US) · /blˈʌf/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bluff
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. to deceive or trick

verb · CEFR B2

to try to trick someone by pretending you have a stronger position or more power than you actually have.

For teachers: to deceive an opponent by a false show of confidence or strength, often to deter them from a specific action.

- He was bluffing when he said he had another job offer waiting for him.
- The negotiator was clearly bluffing about the company's willingness to walk away from the deal, hoping to secure a lower price through intimidation.

### 2. a trick or false show

noun · CEFR B2

an attempt to trick someone into believing something that is not true.

For teachers: an instance of pretending to be in a stronger position than one is in reality.

- The manager called his bluff and asked to see the evidence immediately.
- When the opposition threatened to resign, the prime minister dismissed it as a desperate bluff intended to stall the upcoming vote.

### 4. direct and rough

adjective · CEFR C2 · Literary

having a very direct, honest, but slightly rough or unfriendly way of speaking.

For teachers: characterised by a direct, blunt, and hearty manner that may appear slightly rude or unrefined.

- The old captain had a bluff manner that hid his kind heart.
- Despite his bluff exterior and lack of formal etiquette, the landlord was deeply respected by the villagers for his unwavering integrity.

## Examples

- He is bluffing about having a better offer.
- The negotiator decided to bluff, claiming he had another buyer waiting, even though the house had been on the market for months.
- In high-stakes poker, the ability to bluff effectively is just as vital as the cards themselves, as it forces opponents to fold despite holding superior hands.

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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.