play possum

• 习语，指装睡、装死或装作不知情，以欺骗他人或逃避注意。

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.

   装死或装睡

   • 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.

   装聋作哑、装傻充愣

   • 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.