English phrase from drama scenes

What Does "they like to play hard to get" Mean?

Learn what "they like to play hard to get" means, when people say it, and how to use it naturally in English.

Beginner
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Explain

You know how they are, man. They like to play hard to get.

The speaker means the person is pretending not to be interested to increase attraction or interest.

From In Love With My Godfather's Daughter, Episode 31

When do people say this?

Scene Context

Someone is saying that some people like to act uninterested on purpose.

Usage Scenario

Use this in dating conversations or when describing flirtatious behavior. It can sound judgmental if said seriously about someone.

Better ways to say it

1
They’re playing hard to get.
2
They like to act hard to get.
3
They’re pretending not to be interested.

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What Does "they like to play hard to get" Mean? - ReelFluent