Idioms #8
Gamble / card related
Roll the dice: This means to take a risk or leave something to chance, much like throwing dice in a game.
The luck of the draw: This refers to a situation where luck or chance plays a significant role, similar to drawing cards in a game.
Play your cards right: This idiom suggests making wise decisions or taking the right actions to achieve a positive outcome, just as a skilled card player would.
Bet your bottom dollar: To be extremely confident or certain about something, often used when taking a significant risk.
A roll of the dice: This indicates a situation where the outcome is uncertain and relies on chance.
Hedge your bets: To reduce the risk of loss by placing bets or investments in such a way that you have a chance of winning no matter what.
Poker face: This refers to maintaining a calm and unreadable expression, especially in situations where you're trying to hide your emotions or intentions.
All bets are off: When this phrase is used, it means that the usual rules or expectations no longer apply, and the situation is uncertain.
Double down: To increase your commitment or risk in a situation, often when you believe strongly in your chances of success.
The chips are down: This means that the situation has become serious, and it's time to take decisive action.
A sure bet: Something that is almost certain to happen or succeed.
The house always wins: This expression suggests that in most gambling situations, the casino or house has the statistical advantage, making it likely that they will profit in the long run.
Throw caution to the wind: To take a big risk without worrying about the consequences.
On a winning streak: To be experiencing a series of consecutive successes or good fortune.
In the cards: If something is "in the cards," it means that it's likely to happen or it's destined to occur, much like certain cards appearing in a card game.
Betting the farm: To risk everything you have on a single venture or decision.
Play the card(s) right: This means to make the correct decisions or take the appropriate actions in a given situation.
Hold all the cards: To have a position of power or advantage in a situation, often implying that you have control over the outcome.
Put/lay your cards on the table: To be honest and open about your intentions or opinions, typically used in discussions or negotiations.
Have a card up your sleeve: To have a hidden advantage or secret plan that can be used when needed.
Wild card: Something or someone that is unpredictable or can change the course of events unexpectedly.
House of cards: A fragile or unstable situation that could collapse easily, just like a poorly constructed card tower.
Hold/keep one's cards close to one's chest: To keep one's intentions, plans, or thoughts secret, much like holding playing cards close to prevent others from seeing them.
Play the race/sexuality/gender card: To use one's race, sexuality, or gender as a means to gain sympathy, support, or advantage in a situation, often in a negative or manipulative context.
Get one's card(s) punched: To experience a setback or encounter a problem, often used in a work or business context.
In the cards: If something is "in the cards," it means that it's likely to happen or it's destined to occur, similar to a card game where certain outcomes are predetermined.
House of card: A similar expression to "house of cards," referring to a fragile or unstable situation that could easily collapse.
Card-carrying member: Someone who is officially recognized as a member of a particular group or organization, often used humorously.
Card shark: An expert or highly skilled card player, often used to describe someone who is exceptionally good at card games like poker.
Card up one's sleeve: Similar to "having a card up your sleeve," this refers to having a hidden advantage or secret plan.
One-card trick: An unimpressive or simple trick or action that lacks complexity.
