play with house money

Meaning: To take risks when one has nothing personal to lose, or to act recklessly because the stakes feel low.

Example: “After winning the first two hands, he was playing with house money and started betting wildly.”

Origin: From gambling; house money is winnings already taken from the casino, so betting it feels consequence-free to the bettor.

More English idioms

all mouth and trousers Full of loud boasting and empty talk, lacking substance or follow-through.
turn on one's heel To suddenly depart or walk away, often in a dramatic or dismissive manner.
sugarcoat the pill To make something unpleasant more palatable or easier to accept.
ace up one's sleeve A hidden advantage or secret resource kept in reserve to use when needed.
what's eating you What is bothering or irritating you?
old flame A former romantic partner, especially one whose memory still stirs affection.

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