two can / could play that / this game

/tˈuː kan ɔː kʊd plˈeɪ ðat ɔː ðɪs ɡˈeɪm/

/tˈuː kæn ɔːɹ kʊd plˈeɪ ðæt ɔːɹ ðɪs ɡˈeɪm/

[sentence]

[SENTENCE]

used to show one's confidence in dealing with another person's behavior and using it to their disadvantage

What is the origin of the idiom "two can play that game" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "two can play that game" can be traced back to the idea of reciprocity and competition. The phrase likely evolved from the concept of responding to someone's actions in a similar manner, especially in situations involving rivalry or conflict. It reflects the notion that if one person initiates a particular course of action, another person can adopt a similar approach to counteract or compete effectively. It is often used when someone observes another person engaging in a particular strategy, behavior, or action, and they want to convey their readiness and ability to respond in a similar manner.

Examples

1. When I found out that my husband had been having an affair, I thought "two can play at that game!"

2. Two can play at this game!

3. Well, two can play at this game.

4. Two can play this game.