Keep it on the down-low

[0951] In the cards

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English Idioms
All Idioms

Explanation

  • Likely, probable, or destined to happen; predictable based on current signs.

Origin

  • Refers to fortune-telling using playing cards (cartomancy) or Tarot cards.
  • If an event or outcome was foreseen in the cards during a reading, it was considered likely or fated.
  • The metaphor extended to mean anything probable or likely based on circumstances.

Synonyms & Related Expressions

  • Likely / Probable
  • On the horizon
  • Possible / A strong possibility
  • Expected / Anticipated
  • In the pipeline / In the works (if actively planned)
  • Bound to happen (stronger certainty)

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

  • Looks like it's gonna happen.
  • Probably gonna happen.
  • Good chance.
  • On the way.
  • It's looking that way.

Vulgar/Emphatic (Expressing strong likelihood or desire):

  • It's fucking likely.
  • Damn straight that's gonna happen. (If speaker wants it)

Milder/Standard:

  • It seems probable.
  • There is a strong likelihood.
  • It is expected to occur.
  • The signs point towards it.

Situational Appropriateness

  • Suitable for most situations, both informal and semi-formal.
  • It adds a slight touch of folk wisdom or fatalism.

Misunderstanding Warnings

  • Someone unfamiliar with the idiom might think it literally refers to playing cards or greeting cards if the context isn't clear.

Examples

  • After her great performance review, a promotion is definitely in the cards.
  • They've been arguing constantly; I think a breakup might be in the cards.
  • Winning the championship seems in the cards for that team this year.
  • I don't think a big vacation is in the cards for us this year, financially.

Dialogue

Person A: Do you think the company will expand next year?

Person B: Given our current growth rate and market position, I'd say it's in the cards.

Person A: That would be exciting. More opportunities for everyone.

Social Media Examples

  • Tweet: Market trends looking positive! Hopefully, a good Q4 report is in the cards for us. 📈 #Business #Optimism
  • Instagram Caption: Dreaming of sunny beaches... is a tropical getaway in the cards soon? 🌴☀️ #TravelDreams #Manifesting
  • Facebook Post: Heard rumors about our favorite band releasing a new album. Fingers crossed it's in the cards for 2024! 🎶

Response Patterns

  • Do you really think so?
  • I hope you're right! / I hope not!
  • We'll see what happens.
  • Seems likely. / Doesn't surprise me.
  • What makes you say that?

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

  • Ask for justification: Why do you think that's in the cards?
  • Express agreement or disagreement with the prediction.
  • Discuss the factors making it likely or unlikely.
  • Express hope or concern about the potential outcome: Fingers crossed! / Oh dear.

Conversation Starter

  • Yes, can be used to speculate about future possibilities: Do you think working from home permanently is in the cards for our company?

Intonation

  • Emphasis often on cards.
  • The tone can be hopeful, resigned, analytical, or predictive.
  • A promotion is IN THE CARDS for her.

Generation Differences

  • Widely understood and used across generations.

Regional Variations

  • Common in most English-speaking regions.
Keep it on the down-low
🎲 Hit the jackpot