Meaning of play the race card | Babel Free

Definitions

To assert that race or racism is involved in a situation, especially in order to exploit racist or antiracist attitudes.

derogatory, idiomatic, often

Examples

“The defense played the race card, but Ito let them.”

“Moreover, some leaders on both sides of any racial divide love to play the race card to keep themselves in power.”

“White man: White privilege? Now you're just playing the race card. Clio: No. I'm not "playing the race card". Because racism isn't a card game to me. It can get me killed or jailed... threaten my livelihood. I don't have the privilege to treat it like a game. White man: Oooo well played!”

CEFR level