IdiomBody & Senses
English
Englishplay into someone's hands
Meaning: To act in a way that unintentionally helps an opponent.
Example: “By losing his temper, he played right into their hands.”
Origin: From card games, where a careless play gives the opponent the advantage. The phrase is common from the 19th century.
Equivalents in other languages
Greek: Φέρνω νερό στο μύλο κάποιου Literally: Bring water to someone's mill
More English idioms
- make a hash of something To do something very badly.
- play dumb To pretend not to know or understand something.
- all hell breaks loose Chaos and disorder suddenly erupt.
- make short work of something To deal with or finish something quickly.
- be put out to pasture To be retired or set aside as no longer useful.
- an uphill battle A long, difficult struggle.
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- Che spettacolo! You look absolutely stunning — a spontaneous burst of admiration for someone's appearance.
- Du bist ein Goldstück You're a real gem — priceless, irreplaceable, and deeply appreciated.
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