Put cards on the table

Meaning

The idiom "put cards on the table" means to reveal or disclose information, especially something that was previously hidden or kept secret. It can also mean to make a proposal or offer, or to expose one's true intentions or motivations. The phrase is thought to have originated from the game of poker, where players would place their cards on the table in order to show their hand.

Usage

• After months of speculation about his future at the company, John finally put cards on the table and announced his plans to retire next year.
• In order to negotiate a better deal, the buyer asked for all the cards to be put on the table so they could see the full range of options available.
• During the trial, witnesses were asked to put cards on the table and testify about what they saw.
• After weeks of silence, the rumors finally put cards on the table when the couple announced their separation.
• The politician put cards on the table and revealed that he had accepted a bribe to secure a government contract.

Roots and History

The exact origin of the idiom "put cards on the table" is unclear, but it is believed to have originated from the game of poker. In poker, players would place their cards on the table in order to show their hand. This act of revealing one's hand became associated with revealing other types of information, such as one's intentions or motivations. Over time, the phrase has taken on a more general meaning and is now used to refer to any type of disclosure or revelation.

Synonyms in English

• reveal
• uncover
• expose
• lay bare
• bring to light

Synonyms in other languages

• Spanish: desvelar
• French: dévoiler
• German: offenlegen
• Italian: rivelare
• Japanese: 表示する (hyōshisuru)

Similar Idioms

• pass the buck

• jump to conclusions

• love me, love my dog