Call somebody’s bluff

usgb
verb

To challenge someone to act on their threat or prove that their claim is true, when you believe it is not.

When my colleague threatened to quit if he didn't get a raise, I decided to call his bluff.
Visual representation of "call somebody’s bluff" - To challenge someone to act on their threat or prove that their claim is true, when you believe it is not.

Often appears as...

  • call one's bluff
  • calling your bluff

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "call somebody’s bluff"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Poker Origin

The phrase originates from the game of poker, where bluffing is a key strategy.

Illustration for Poker Origin
He claimed he would move abroad, but I called his bluff and he admitted he wasn't serious.
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Skepticism Required

Use this phrase when you're skeptical about someone's claims and want to challenge them.

Illustration for Skepticism Required
She said she could eat 50 hot dogs, so I called her bluff to see if she could really do it.
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Not Always Serious

Sometimes 'call someone's bluff' is used humorously, rather than confronting a serious threat.

Illustration for Not Always Serious
Jake joked about shaving his head, so we called his bluff and handed him the clippers.
Visual representation of the word "Call somebody’s bluff"

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