Play dead Meaning in English
expression
Definición
To pretend to be dead, often to avoid danger or to trick someone.
Uso & Matices
Usually informal. Commonly used literally for animals and sometimes people, but can be used metaphorically to mean ignoring a problem or pretending something isn't happening. 'Play dead' is different from 'act dead' (less common); do not confuse with 'pretend to sleep'.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
The dog plays dead when it hears loud noises.
basic
Some animals play dead to escape from predators.
basic
He decided to play dead when the thief entered the house.
basic
Sometimes, it's better to just play dead and wait for things to calm down.
natural
"If the bear comes closer, just play dead," the guide whispered.
natural
When her boss started shouting, she basically just played dead and waited for it to end.
natural