CALL BLUFF Meaning and
Definition
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To "call someone's bluff" refers to the act of challenging or questioning the truthfulness or sincerity of someone's statements, actions, or claims, with the intention of forcing them to reveal their true intentions or capabilities. It stems from the game of poker, where players may feign confidence or exaggerate the strength of their hand to intimidate opponents into folding. When a player suspects that another player is bluffing, they can "call the bluff" by daring the opposing player to reveal their cards.
In a broader context, "calling someone's bluff" transcends the poker analogy and applies to situations beyond the realm of card games. It typically involves issuing a direct challenge or demanding proof or evidence to back up a claim or action made by an individual. By doing so, the person initiating the challenge seeks to expose any potential deception or insincerity, forcing the bluffer to either follow through on their claim or admit their deceit.
Calling someone's bluff often requires a certain level of assertiveness, courage, and skepticism, as it involves confronting the person to assess the validity of their claims. The term is commonly used metaphorically to describe situations where one questions or challenges the credibility or authenticity of someone's assertions or actions, aiming to expose any inconsistencies or falsehoods.
Common Misspellings for CALL BLUFF
- call bnuff
- call bmuff
- call bl5ff
- call bleff
- call blqff
- call blwff
- call bltff
- call blunf
- call blubf
- call blufn
- call blufb
- cawlbluff
- c all bluff
- ca ll bluff
- cal l bluff
- call b luff
- call bl uff
- call blu ff
- call bluf f
Etymology of CALL BLUFF
The phrase "call bluff" has its origins in the world of poker. It dates back to the mid-19th century when bluffing became a common strategy in the game. "Call" refers to a player matching a bet or raising during the betting round, and "bluff" refers to pretending to have a better hand than one actually does, in order to deceive opponents and make them fold their hands.
The term "bluff" itself comes from the Dutch word "bluf", which means "to brag" or "to boast". The exact origin of "bluff" in the context of poker is uncertain, but it is believed to have been borrowed from 19th-century American English, which had a strong Dutch influence.
Idioms with the word CALL BLUFF
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call bluff
To challenge someone's statements or actions, often by threatening to reveal their bluff or deception.
