Play gooseberry

usgb
phrase

Be an unwanted third person, often in a romantic situation.

I didn't want to play gooseberry during their date, so I decided to leave early.
Visual representation of "play gooseberry" - be an unwanted third person, often in a romantic situation

Often appears as...

  • don't want to play gooseberry
  • forced to play gooseberry

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

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

Unwanted Presence

The phrase implies the person's presence is intrusive or uncomfortable for others, especially a couple.

Illustration for Unwanted Presence
When I realized they wanted privacy, I felt like I was playing gooseberry.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Romantic Context

Often used when a couple wants to be alone, and a third person is present, making the situation awkward.

Illustration for Romantic Context
Hanging out with them on Valentine's Day made me the gooseberry.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Usage

Understand it as an idiom, not to be taken literally. 'Gooseberry' doesn't refer to the fruit in this context.

Illustration for Idiomatic Usage
I declined the invite, not wishing to play gooseberry at their anniversary dinner.
Visual representation of the word "Play gooseberry"

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