OVERPLAY YOUR HAND Meaning and
Definition
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To "overplay your hand" is an idiomatic phrase used to describe a situation where someone attempts to take advantage of a favorable position or an advantageous situation but ends up pushing too hard or going beyond what is appropriate or reasonable. This phrase is commonly used in various contexts, including negotiation, business deals, relationships, and competitive games, among others.
When someone "overplays their hand," they exhibit excessive confidence or arrogance. They may try to assert their dominance or leverage their advantageous position in a way that is seen as excessive or unnecessary, thereby risking the loss of their advantage altogether. This phrase suggests that the individual goes too far or acts too aggressively, thereby jeopardizing the outcome they desired. It implies that their actions are conspicuous, exaggerated, and counterproductive.
Overplaying your hand often leads to negative consequences such as irritating or alienating others involved in the situation, or making rash decisions that cause the advantage to be lost altogether. It can be seen as a strategic mistake resulting from overconfidence or a lack of awareness of the boundaries set by others involved.
In summary, "overplaying your hand" refers to behaving in a way that exceeds what is reasonable or appropriate when in a position of advantage, ultimately leading to unfavorable outcomes. This phrase serves as a reminder to remain mindful of one's actions and to ensure that the pursuit of advantage does not result in self-sabotage.
Common Misspellings for OVERPLAY YOUR HAND
Idioms with the word OVERPLAY YOUR HAND
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overplay your hand
To overplay your hand means to push your advantage too far, to take excessive or unnecessary risks in a situation where you already have the upper hand, resulting in potentially negative consequences.
