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Region: US | Usage example: He is a few cards short of a deck when it comes to finances.

A few cards short of a deck

Meaning

Slightly lacking intelligence or common sense.

Usage

Used jokingly about someone acting foolishly.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Card game metaphor for missing elements.

Used since the mid-20th century in casual American slang.

Related Idioms

A dollar short

Lacking enough resources or support.

A day late and a dollar short

Too late or insufficient to succeed.

Make a long story short

Summarize briefly.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.