The idiom "tip one's hand" means to reveal your plans, intentions, or secrets, usually unintentionally, giving an advantage to someone else.
It comes from the game of poker, where players hold their cards close to their chest and try not to reveal their hand to other players. If a player accidentally shows their cards, it gives other players an advantage as they can use that information to make better decisions.
In everyday language, we use this idiom to describe situations where someone reveals too much information, giving others an advantage. For example, if you are negotiating a business deal and reveal your bottom line too early, you may be "tipping your hand" and giving the other party an advantage in the negotiation.
In summary, "tipping one's hand" means to reveal too much information, giving an advantage to someone else. It is often used in situations where secrecy or discretion is important, such as negotiations, competitions, or games.
• I knew I had to be careful not to tip my hand during the negotiations, or else the other party would gain an advantage.
• I don't want to tip my hand and spoil the surprise party for my friend.
• The politician carefully avoided tipping his hand about his plans for the upcoming election.
• The detective accidentally tipped his hand during the interrogation, revealing his suspicion.
• It was clear that the spy had tipped their hand, as their cover was blown and they were quickly captured.
• The CEO strategically tipped her hand, revealing just enough information to keep the investors interested.