Playing cardsPlaying cards in English were either "playing cards" or "(playing) cards", which could also be called "cartes a jouer"(French etymology) or "Torranpo"(Japanese name, derived from the English name "trump" for the "trump card" in bridge and other card games). The colors and faces of the playing cards were as follows:
- Spades: The cards were 2 (Two), 3 (Three), 4 (Four), 5 (Five), 6 (Six), 7 (Seven), 8 (Eight), 9 (Nine), 10 (Ten), Jack (Servant), Queen (Queen), King (King), Ace (Ace), Joker (Ghost cards, commonly known as "King" and "Little King".
- Hearts (also known as Hearts): There are also 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, Joker.
- Diamonds (also known as diamonds): There are 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace.
- Clubs: . The cards are 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, Jack, Queen, King, Ace, Joker.
In addition, some English idioms related to playing cards are as follows:
- Play cards.
- Card up one's sleeve: a secret plan, idea, or advantage in reserve.
- "In the cards": It's very likely to happen in the future (mainly used in affirmations);"Not in the cards": It's hopeless.
- "Count on one's own cards": fearless and self-reliant.
- "Hold all the cards": Dominate the overall situation, everything is under control, hold all the winning cards.
- lay all one's cards on the table