Play chicken

usgb
verb

To do something dangerous or risky in order to make the other person stop or quit first.

Two cars drove towards each other on the single-lane road, playing chicken until one of them veered off to avoid a collision.
Visual representation of "play chicken" - To do something dangerous or risky in order to make the other person stop or quit first

Often appears as...

  • playing chicken with cars
  • they were playing chicken

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "play chicken"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Risky Confrontation

The phrase often describes a situation where two parties confront each other, testing who will give in first.

Illustration for Risky Confrontation
The two companies were playing chicken, waiting for the other to withdraw the competitive bid first.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

Although it sounds physical, 'play chicken' is usually a metaphor for any risky standoff, not just in vehicles.

Illustration for Not Literal
The two politicians were playing chicken, seeing who would back down from the debate challenge first.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Negative Implication

'Play chicken' often implies recklessness and is used negatively to criticize the risky behavior.

Illustration for Negative Implication
He's just playing chicken with his health now, ignoring all the doctor's advice.
Visual representation of the word "Play chicken"

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