Play hard to get

phrase

To act uninterested or aloof to attract someone's attention or interest.

He was trying to impress her, but she decided to play hard to get.
Visual representation of "play hard to get" - To act uninterested or aloof to attract someone's attention or interest.

Often appears as...

  • decides to play hard to get
  • loves to play hard to get

Usage tips

Colloquial

phrase

To act uninterested or aloof to attract someone's attention or interest.

He was trying to impress her, but she decided to play hard to get.
Visual representation of "play hard to get" - To act uninterested or aloof to attract someone's attention or interest.

Often appears as...

  • decides to play hard to get
  • loves to play hard to get

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "play hard to get"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Romantic Strategy

This phrase often describes a dating tactic where someone pretends not to be interested in a potential partner.

Illustration for Romantic Strategy
She's playing hard to get, hoping it will make him more interested in her.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Just Flirting

Although common in dating, 'play hard to get' can be used in other situations where someone wants to increase their appeal.

Illustration for Not Just Flirting
The artist played hard to get, making galleries eager to host his work.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Psychological Tactic

Playing hard to get can be a psychological game to make the other person want what seems out of reach.

Illustration for Psychological Tactic
The interviewer seemed to play hard to get, which made the job seem even more desirable.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Romantic Strategy

This phrase often describes a dating tactic where someone pretends not to be interested in a potential partner.

Illustration for Romantic Strategy
She's playing hard to get, hoping it will make him more interested in her.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Just Flirting

Although common in dating, 'play hard to get' can be used in other situations where someone wants to increase their appeal.

Illustration for Not Just Flirting
The artist played hard to get, making galleries eager to host his work.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Psychological Tactic

Playing hard to get can be a psychological game to make the other person want what seems out of reach.

Illustration for Psychological Tactic
The interviewer seemed to play hard to get, which made the job seem even more desirable.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Romantic Strategy

This phrase often describes a dating tactic where someone pretends not to be interested in a potential partner.

Illustration for Romantic Strategy
She's playing hard to get, hoping it will make him more interested in her.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Just Flirting

Although common in dating, 'play hard to get' can be used in other situations where someone wants to increase their appeal.

Illustration for Not Just Flirting
The artist played hard to get, making galleries eager to host his work.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Psychological Tactic

Playing hard to get can be a psychological game to make the other person want what seems out of reach.

Illustration for Psychological Tactic
The interviewer seemed to play hard to get, which made the job seem even more desirable.
Visual representation of the word "Play hard to get"

Never forget "Play hard to get"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top