The game is up

usgb
phrase

Deception or scheme has been exposed or finished.

He realized the game was up when the police arrived in force.
Visual representation of "the game is up" - Deception or scheme has been exposed or finished

Often appears as...

  • realize the game is up
  • know the game is up

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "the game is up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Ending Trickery

Use when someone can no longer continue their deceitful behavior because they're caught.

Illustration for Ending Trickery
Once the hidden cameras were found, everyone knew the game was up.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Revelation Moment

Marks the moment when the truth is revealed, often after a period of suspicion.

Illustration for Revelation Moment
When the test answers were found in his pocket, the teacher declared the game was up.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Caught in Action

Often used when someone is caught during the act, leading to an abrupt end of their schemes.

Illustration for Caught in Action
She tried to sneak out quietly, but her mom appeared and said, the game is up.
Visual representation of the word "The game is up"

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