Play it cool
phrase
To stay calm, not show your feelings, especially in a difficult situation.
Even though he was nervous, he tried to play it cool during the interview.
Often appears as...
- play it cool in a situation
- play it cool under pressure
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrase
To act in a casual or detached way with the intention of not seeming too eager or desperate.
When she texted him, he decided to play it cool and wait a while before replying.
Often appears as...
- play it cool with someone
- play it cool to seem less eager
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrase
To stay calm, not show your feelings, especially in a difficult situation.
Even though he was nervous, he tried to play it cool during the interview.
Often appears as...
- play it cool in a situation
- play it cool under pressure
Usage tips
Colloquial
phrase
To act in a casual or detached way with the intention of not seeming too eager or desperate.
When she texted him, he decided to play it cool and wait a while before replying.
Often appears as...
- play it cool with someone
- play it cool to seem less eager
Usage tips
Colloquial
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Restraint
Use 'play it cool' to suggest controlling emotions, even if you're anxious or excited.
He won the award but played it cool in front of his colleagues.
Pro Tip 2/3Understated Reaction
It implies giving a muted response to an event that would normally elicit a stronger one.
When she mentioned the rumor, he just played it cool.
Pro Tip 3/3Masking Nerves
Use the phrase to describe hiding nervousness in situations where appearing confident is beneficial.
On his first day, he played it cool even though he felt lost.
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