overplay your hand
Meaning(s)
1. make an error or fail at something due to overconfidence in your position or ability
Popularity
High
Professional
High
Social
How to Memorize
overplay your hand in the negotiations
Analysis
In a game of cards to overplay your hand is to bet on your cards with misplaced confidence. Figuratively, to overplay your hand means to ruin your chances of success by being overconfident. This is a popular idiom in social and professional contexts.
Social Examples (Advance)
- I thought Ruth wanted my honest opinion on her performance, but she hasn't spoken to me since. Now I think I might have overplayed my hand.
- I might have overplayed my hand when I asked Fiona on a date.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- I overplayed my hand by demanding a pay rise. Now I'm worried that I might lose my job!
- Don't overplay your hand in these negotiations. We need this deal just as much as they do.