Expressions used in Everyday Spoken English in Social and Professional contexts

play dumb

play dumb
Meaning(s)
1) act ignorant about something
  • How to MemorizePopularity MediumProfessional MediumSocial
    • don't play dumb with me
  • Analysis
    To ‘play dumb’ means to pretend or feign ignorance about something. If you ‘play dumb’ you might pretend not to know something even though you do know about it. Usually, this is to avoid getting into trouble or revealing a secret. This is a casual expression used more often in social situations.
  • Social Examples (Advance)
    1. Jack found out that his friends had secretly planned a birthday party for him, but he played dumb so as not to ruin the surprise.
    2. Don't play dumb with me - I know you stole my bike!
  • Professional Examples (Advance)
    1. If the client asks for an update, play dumb and tell them you will get back to them.
    2. Don't play dumb. You know the way you handled that issue was wrong.
  • Further Suggestions
    play (your) cards close to (your) chest (be/like) a sheep
Category
General Phrasal Verbs Idioms
Previous play hardball
Next play down

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