English Meaning & Definitions
The act of deceiving someone into thinking that you can or will do something, or that you possess something, when you do not.
- “Her aggressive negotiating style was just bluffing to secure a better deal.”
- “The opponent called his bluffing, forcing him to show his cards.”
Present participle of bluff; engaging in a deceptive display of strength, confidence, or capability.
- “He was bluffing when he said he knew all the answers to the test.”
- “She is just bluffing about quitting her job if she doesn't get a raise.”
English Synonyms & Near Equivalents
English Antonyms & Opposites
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “bluffing”.
Derived from the verb 'bluff', which entered the English language in the late 17th century, originally meaning 'having the blinkers on' (as a horse). By the early 19th century in North America, the term shifted in meaning within card games like poker to describe misleading opponents about the strength of one's hand.
Think of a game of poker where you are trying to 'buff' (build up) your image as a strong player, even when your cards are weak.
Frequently Asked Questions About “bluffing”
1. What is the meaning of “bluffing” in English?
In English, bluffing (noun) is defined as: “The act of deceiving someone into thinking that you can or will do something, or that you possess something, when you do not.”.
2. How do you use “bluffing” in a sentence?
“Her aggressive negotiating style was just bluffing to secure a better deal.”
3. What are English synonyms of “bluffing”?
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “bluffing”?
Derived from the verb 'bluff', which entered the English language in the late 17th century, originally meaning 'having the blinkers on' (as a horse). By the early 19th century in North America, the term shifted in meaning within card games like poker to describe misleading opponents about the strength of one's hand.
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