* play one's cards close to one's chest OR * play one's cards close to one's vest OR * keep one's cards close to one's chest OR * keep one's cards close to one's vest Figurative : to keep to oneself or be very cautious in one's dealing with people. (As if one were playing cards and not permitting anyone to see any of the cards.) example : He is very cautious. He plays his cards close to his chest. You seem to be playing your cards close to your vest.