be played like a fiddle

be played like a fiddle

To be skillfully manipulated by someone to suit their own needs, ends, or benefits. I was played like a fiddle by that travelling salesman. Now what am I going to do with all this junk that he convinced me to buy? Can't you see that his flattery is totally insincere? You're being played like a fiddle! Come on, the kids are clearly playing you like a fiddle. You can't just cater to all their whims!

See also: fiddle, like, play

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