show your hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "show your hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as games, negotiations, or discussions where someone reveals their intentions or plans. Example: "In the final round of negotiations, it was time to show your hand and reveal what you were willing to compromise on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

"You can't ever show your hand to the other side.

The Guardian

If you show your hand, as Cameron has done, you blow it.

The Guardian - Opinion

NO matter how kid-sick you are, don't show your hand.

The New York Times

Sometimes, you have to show your hand to win the game.

The Guardian - Opinion

"You don't want to show your hand too much," Minky says.

The Guardian - Tech

And it could be the greatest idea in the world, but you don't want to show your hand.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Show your hands!

The New York Times

"Despite repeated requests to stop, despite repeated requests to show your hands, that didn't happen".

The New York Times

Show your hands!" The accounts of civilians on the street were also varied.

The New York Times

"Show your hands if you're wearing black nail varnish," commands XFM presenter Jon Holmes, introducing the first of the Cure's two Teenage Cancer Trust shows.

The Guardian - Music

"We are going to try and tell you to show your hands," Trost said, alluding to fans who might try to take dirt or grass from the field.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In negotiations or strategic discussions, carefully consider the timing of when you "show your hand". Premature revelation can weaken your position.

Common error

While "show your hand" is a useful idiom, avoid overuse. Vary your language by using synonyms like "reveal your intentions" or "disclose your plans" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "show your hand" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression. It conveys the act of revealing one's intentions or strategies. As per Ludwig, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

12%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

17%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "show your hand" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe the act of revealing one's intentions or strategies. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. It is most frequently found in news and media, academic writing, and general discussions. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the timing and potential impact of revealing your plans. Alternatives such as "reveal your intentions" or "disclose your plans" can be used to avoid overuse. Overall, mastering the appropriate use of "show your hand" enhances strategic communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lay your cards on the table

A more direct synonym, employing similar card game imagery.

tip your hand

Suggests unintentionally revealing your plans or intentions.

unveil your strategy

Highlights the deliberate and planned nature of the revelation.

bring your cards to light

Metaphorically exposing something that was hidden or secret.

reveal your intentions

Focuses on the act of making intentions known, omitting the strategic aspect of "hand".

unmask your strategy

Undoing something that was concealed or covered.

disclose your plans

Emphasizes the revealing of future actions, rather than current strategy.

make your position clear

Emphasizes clarity and directness in stating one's stance.

divulge your secrets

Shifts the focus to revealing hidden information, which may or may not be strategic.

reveal your true colors

Suggests revealing one's genuine nature or character, which is a broader meaning.

FAQs

What does it mean to "show your hand"?

To "show your hand" means to reveal your plans, intentions, or strategy, often in a negotiation, game, or competitive situation.

When is it a good idea to "show your hand"?

It can be beneficial to "show your hand" when you want to build trust, force a decision, or when you believe revealing your position will give you an advantage.

What can I say instead of "show your hand"?

You can use alternatives like "reveal your intentions", "disclose your plans", or "lay your cards on the table" depending on the context.

Is it ever a bad idea to "show your hand"?

Yes, it's generally unwise to "show your hand" too early in a negotiation or competitive situation, as it may allow your opponent to anticipate your moves and gain an advantage. Maintaining secrecy can be crucial.