Don't try to pull a fast one on me
Meaning
It's a warning not to try to trick or deceive the speaker, especially to gain an unfair advantage.
Origin
The phrase "pull a fast one" emerged in early 20th-century America, likely born from the smoky backrooms and bustling fairgrounds where gambling and street cons thrived. Imagine a seasoned card sharp, their hands a blur as they execute a quick, deceptive sleight-of-hand—a "fast one"—to outwit an unsuspecting mark. This vivid image of a swift, cunning maneuver designed to gain an unfair advantage quickly escaped the confines of the gaming table, becoming a universal warning against any attempt at trickery or dishonesty.
Examples
- I've reviewed the contract carefully, so don't try to pull a fast one on me with any hidden fees.
- After noticing the slight discrepancy in the bill, she looked directly at the waiter and said, "Don't try to pull a fast one on me."