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Region: US | Usage example: She played hard to get during the networking event.

Play hard to get

Meaning

Actly aloof or disinterested to appear more attractive.

Usage

Used when describing flirting or negotiations where people feign disinterest.

Origin & History

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

Dating advice encouraging coy behavior to create allure.

Popularized in mid-20th-century relationship columns.

Related Idioms

Between a rock and a hard place

Stuck between two negative options.

A hard row to hoe

A task that will take a lot of effort, usually because conditions are challenging.

Play devil's advocate

Argue an opposing view for debate purposes.

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.