In theory. Then close your eyes.

VOA: standard.other

In everyday speech, holding your cards close to your vest means not letting other know what you are doing or thinking.

VOA: special.2009.11.22

You can do a better job of bluffing if you hold your cards close to your vest.

VOA: special.2009.11.22

You hold your cards close to you so no one can see what you have.

VOA: special.2009.11.22

"I don't think there's a good reason to close schools in Ethiopia right now. There's every reason in every country to wash your hands.

VOA: standard.2009.04.28