Meaning
To act deceitfully, pretending to support one side while secretly working for another.
Cultural Background
The phrase is deeply linked to the history of the French Secret Services (DGSE) and literature like 'Les Liaisons Dangereuses'. In Quebec, the phrase is used identically, but sometimes you might hear 'jouer sur les deux bords' in more informal speech. In international French-speaking diplomacy, this is a very serious accusation that can lead to a 'persona non grata' status. In the 'grandes entreprises', 'jouer un double jeu' is often seen as a way to survive internal restructurings, though it is highly risky for one's reputation.
Use 'Mener' for extra style
Using 'mener un double jeu' instead of 'jouer' will make you sound much more like a C2 native speaker in formal writing.
Don't forget the 'un'
Saying 'jouer double jeu' is a common mistake that immediately marks you as a non-native.
Meaning
To act deceitfully, pretending to support one side while secretly working for another.
Use 'Mener' for extra style
Using 'mener un double jeu' instead of 'jouer' will make you sound much more like a C2 native speaker in formal writing.
Don't forget the 'un'
Saying 'jouer double jeu' is a common mistake that immediately marks you as a non-native.
Test Yourself
Complétez la phrase avec le verbe correct au présent.
Il est évident qu'il _______ un double jeu avec la direction.
L'expression fixe est 'jouer un double jeu'.
Quelle phrase est correcte ?
Context: A spy working for two countries.
Il faut l'article 'un' et l'adjectif 'double' avant le nom.
Associez la situation à l'expression.
Un homme politique qui promet la même chose à deux syndicats ennemis.
Promettre des choses contradictoires à deux ennemis est l'essence du double jeu.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesIl est évident qu'il _______ un double jeu avec la direction.
L'expression fixe est 'jouer un double jeu'.
Context: A spy working for two countries.
Il faut l'article 'un' et l'adjectif 'double' avant le nom.
Un homme politique qui promet la même chose à deux syndicats ennemis.
Promettre des choses contradictoires à deux ennemis est l'essence du double jeu.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
2 questionsYes, almost always. It implies deception and a lack of integrity. Even in spy movies where the hero does it, it's seen as a 'necessary evil' rather than a positive trait.
No, that would be too heavy. For a surprise party, use 'cacher quelque chose' or 'préparer une surprise'. 'Double jeu' implies a betrayal of trust.
Related Phrases
Jouer sur les deux tableaux
similarTo profit from two different situations at once.
Jouer cartes sur table
contrastTo be completely honest and transparent.
Être un faux-jeton
synonymTo be a hypocrite.
Mener quelqu'un en bateau
similarTo lead someone on or lie to them.
