TIPS HAND Meaning and
Definition
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To "tip one's hand" means to reveal one's intentions, strategies, or secrets prematurely or inadvertently. It refers to when someone unintentionally discloses their plans or gives away important information, often resulting in a disadvantage or loss of advantage in a particular situation. This idiomatic expression emphasizes the idea of showing one's cards in a card game before it is necessary, thereby giving opponents an advantage in determining their own moves.
The phrase "tips hand" can be used in various contexts, whether it's in business negotiations, sports competitions, or personal relationships. In business, revealing plans or strategies too early may allow rival companies to adjust their own tactics and gain an upper hand. In sports, displaying one's intentions or tactics before the game might give the opposition an opportunity to devise counter-strategies. Likewise, in personal relationships, prematurely disclosing one's feelings or motives could result in vulnerability or manipulation by others.
The overall meaning behind "tips hand" is about the inadvertent act of providing information prematurely, which could potentially compromise one's position or strategic advantage. It warns against revealing crucial intentions or secrets too soon, as it can weaken one's position, provide an advantage to opponents, or hinder overall success. Therefore, it is often important to maintain caution and not disclose one's plans prematurely, especially in situations where having a competitive edge or maintaining an element of surprise is vital.
Common Misspellings for TIPS HAND
Etymology of TIPS HAND
The phrase "tips hand" has its origins in card games, specifically poker. In poker, players hold their cards close to their chests and usually keep their hands hidden. However, when a player reveals some information about their hand, intentionally or unintentionally, they are said to "tip their hand".
The term "tip" in this context means to reveal or disclose, while "hand" refers to the cards held by a player. When someone "tips their hand", they are exposing their intentions, strategies, or some information that gives others an advantage or insight into their plans. Over time, the expression "tips hand" has broadened beyond the realm of card games and is now used metaphorically in various situations to describe revealing or divulging information prematurely or inadvertently.
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