play the victim card

Verb

 * 1)  To portray oneself as an innocent victim instead of taking responsibility.
 * The serial killer played the victim card as he blamed others for his actions.

Usage notes

 * The phrase "play the - card" can be used for a variety of issues or qualities exploited to gain sympathy such as race, gender, sexuality, (advanced) age, disability, physical or mental health, etc.

Translations

 * Swedish: