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Words and Their StoriesLearning Expressions with VOA
Processed with VS1Distinguish pretending not to notice from withdrawing, avoiding a problem, or reacting defensively.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptThe expression “play possum” means to pretend to be unaware, inactive, or harmless in order to avoid attention. It appears beside related phrases such as “bury your head in the sand,” “lay low,” “keep someone in the dark,” and “tune out.” These expressions describe different behaviors: denial, quiet withdrawal, withholding information, or not paying attention.
Cultural note: The phrase is a metaphor; an opossum’s defensive immobility is a physiological response, not a deliberate performance. Do not use an animal’s involuntary behavior as evidence about human motives. “Bury your head in the sand” can also sound judgmental when someone is dealing with distress or limited information.
Keep exploringSeveral expressions describe not engaging with a problem, but ignoring, hiding, and staying quiet are not the same thing.
Phrase guide · 6 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Describe a person who acts unaware to avoid attention.
Meaning
Pretend to be unaware, inactive, or harmless to avoid attention.
Tone & use
Informal. It describes a human strategy; the animal behavior that inspired it is involuntary.
Example
“When the discussion turned to the missing report, he played possum and said nothing.”
Meaning
Pretend to have or feel something, often in order to deceive.
Tone & use
More formal than “pretend”; it often implies intentional deception.
Example
“He feigned surprise, although the team had told him about the award the day before.”
Recognize metaphors for denial or withdrawal.
Meaning
Ignore an unpleasant situation instead of facing it.
Tone & use
Often critical. Avoid using it to shame someone who may need time, support, or clearer information.
Example
“Rather than bury her head in the sand, she asked the bank to explain the unfamiliar charge.”
Meaning
Keep out of public attention or avoid activity for a while.
Tone & use
Can describe a deliberate choice to avoid notice or to rest; context determines which.
Example
“After the busy launch week, the team laid low and handled only urgent requests.”
Distinguish tuning out from keeping someone uninformed.
Meaning
Withhold information from someone who might expect to know it.
Tone & use
Usually critical. Be precise about what information was withheld and why.
Example
“The organizers kept volunteers in the dark about the schedule change, which caused confusion.”
Meaning
Stop listening or paying attention.
Tone & use
Common in speech; it may happen deliberately or because a person is tired or distracted.
Example
“I was tired and tuned out during the long announcement, so I asked for the written details.”
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