Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To hide one's cards: Literally means to conceal one's playing cards. Figuratively, it means to keep one's plans, strategies, or true intentions secret, especially to gain an advantage.
   • To keep something up one's sleeve: To hold back a secret resource, skill, or piece of information to use at a critical moment.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Anh ta luôn giấu tủ một vài chiêu thức đặc biệt. (He always keeps a few special moves up his sleeve.)
  • Đừng tiết lộ hết kế hoạch, hãy giấu tủ một chút. (Don't reveal the entire plan; keep something in reserve.)
  • Cô ấy giấu tủ bí mật đó cho đến phút cuối. (She kept that secret hidden until the very last minute.)

Advanced Usage

• This phrase originates from card games, where a player hides their cards to prevent opponents from seeing them. Its modern usage extends to any competitive or strategic context (business, sports, debate) where secrecy provides a tactical edge.
• It implies deliberate concealment with the intent to surprise or outmaneuver others later.

Variants and Related Words

• Giấu bài (verb phrase): A more direct synonym, also meaning "to hide one's cards." The usage is very similar.
• Giữ kín (verb): To keep secret, to not disclose.
• Che giấu (verb): To conceal, to hide.

Synonyms

• To hold back: To keep something in reserve.
• To keep under wraps: To keep something secret.
• To have an ace up one's sleeve: (Idiom) To have a hidden advantage.

Related Idioms

• Lật bài ngửa: (To reveal one's cards) To finally show one's true intentions or plans after keeping them secret.
  • Đã đến lúc chúng ta phải lật bài ngửa. (It's time for us to show our cards.)
• Chơi bài ngửa: (To play with cards face-up) To be completely open and transparent, with no secrets.
  • Tôi muốn chơi bài ngửa trong thương lượng này. (I want to be completely open in this negotiation.)