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Meaning of keep one's cards close to one's chest | Babel Free

Verb CEFR C2

Definitions

  1. To avoid revealing one's thoughts, circumstances, or plans.
    figuratively, idiomatic
  2. To hold one's hand close to one's chest so that other players cannot see the cards.

Equivalents

Examples

“Balthus has always kept his cards close to his chest. When I asked him if Summertime was a transcription of Poussin's Echo and Narcissus—a variant of his lost copy—he did not reply.”
“Abdullah has not yet revealed his choice for the No 2 post when he takes over as prime minister, preferring to keep his cards close to his chest.”
“However, the operator is keeping its cards close to its chest.”

CEFR level

C2
Mastery
This word is part of the CEFR C2 vocabulary — mastery level.

See also

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