play possum

• Expression idiomatique signifiant faire semblant d'être endormi, mort ou ignorant afin de tromper quelqu'un ou d'éviter l'attention.

An idiomatic expression meaning to pretend to be asleep, dead, or unaware in order to deceive someone or avoid attention.

1. Pretend to be dead or asleepB2informal

   To pretend to be dead, asleep, or unconscious in order to deceive someone, especially an attacker or predator.

   faire le mort

   • When the bear approached, the hiker decided to play possum.
   • The cat played possum until the dog lost interest.
   • He played possum during the argument to avoid getting involved.

2. Pretend to be unaware or inactiveB2informal

   To pretend to be ignorant, inactive, or not paying attention in order to avoid a situation or responsibility.

   faire le mort

   • When the boss asked who made the mistake, everyone played possum.
   • She played possum when her mother asked about the broken vase.
   • The politician played possum during the debate to avoid answering tough questions.