Trump card Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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trump card
[trʌmp kɑːd ]
Definitions
playing games
A valuable resource that may be kept in reserve until needed, especially a surprise or secret weapon.
Synonyms
ace, secret weapon, wild card.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trump card |
Repeated - refer to 'trump card' above. |
| ace |
Use 'ace' to refer to someone who excels at something, or a very good card in card games. It can also signify someone who is extremely good or skillful in a particular area, often used informally.
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| secret weapon |
This phrase is best used when referring to something or someone that gives a significant advantage but is not widely known or recognized. It can be applied in both serious and lighthearted contexts.
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| wild card |
This term is used to describe something or someone unpredictable, often used in contexts involving sports, games, or situations where the outcome is uncertain. It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation due to the unpredictability.
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Examples of usage
- He was saving his trump card for the final round of the tournament.
- She played her trump card by revealing new evidence at the trial.
politics
A card in a suit that outranks all other cards when the suit is led.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trump card |
This phrase is interchangeable with 'trump card' and is used similarly. There is no difference in meaning or context.
|
| trump |
This word can be used as a verb meaning to beat someone or something by a large margin, or to surpass. It often implies an unexpected or significant victory.
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Examples of usage
- He played his trump card when he announced his endorsement from a popular politician.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The phrase gained wider recognition during political debates, often referring to an unexpected advantage in discussions.
- In media, it's common to hear 'trump card' in shows and movies where characters reveal hidden strengths at crucial moments.
Psychology
- The concept relates to having leverage or an influential edge in social situations, enhancing confidence and strategic thinking.
- In negotiations, knowing your 'trump card' can significantly affect decisions and outcomes.
History
- Historically, trump cards were an essential part of many traditional card games, shifting from a mere game to a metaphor in rhetoric and strategy.
- The use of 'trump' in various contexts has evolved, influencing how we think about competition and advantages.
Literature
- Many authors use the metaphor of a trump card to symbolize hidden strengths or secrets that shape character arcs in dramatic narratives.
- In stories, a character's trump card often leads to unexpected twists, enhancing the plot and engaging the audience.
Origin of 'trump card'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from card games, where a trump card beats other cards and can change the outcome of the game.
- Originally, 'trump' was derived from the Middle English word 'trumpen,' meaning to deceive or outsmart.
The term 'trump card' originated from the card game of whist in the 16th century, where a 'trump' was a playing card that outranked all others. The use of 'trump card' has since evolved to refer to any powerful or decisive resource that can be used to gain an advantage.