give the game away
/ˌɡɪv ðə ˈɡeɪm əˌweɪ/INFORMAL · B2
Meaning
to spoil a surprise by revealing what should stay hidden
Examples
- 1We were planning a surprise, but Dad gave the game away by asking about Mum's dress size.
- 2Don't smile like that, or you'll give the game away.
- 3The birthday cake was hidden, but the smell of chocolate gave the game away.
- 4Try not to give the game away when Tom arrives; he mustn't know about the party.
- 5Who gave the game away? Jo already knows we're flying to Rome for her fortieth.
Grammar
Only give changes: gives, giving, gave, given. Keep the game between give and away.
More idioms about honesty and secrets
All 20 idioms and the topic quiz →under wrapskept private for nowblow the whistle onto tell people in authority about something wrong that someone is doingabove boardhonest and legal, with nothing hiddenlie through your teethto say something you know is completely falsea pack of liesa story or claim that is completely untruecook the booksto change financial records dishonestly
English Idioms400 idioms in 20 topics — with reviews that keep them from fading
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