To strike a dramatic pose (a 'mie') as in kabuki; to take a stylized, theatrical posture.
主演俳優はクライマックスで大きく見得を切った。
The lead actor struck a grand mie at the climax.
子どもが歌舞伎ごっこで見得を切って遊んでいた。
Children were playing kabuki and striking poses.
To make a proud or boastful gesture; to put on airs or show off (idiomatic).
彼は新しい車の前で見得を切っていた。
He was showing off in front of his new car.
そんなに見得を切らなくてもいいよ、もっと自然でいいんだ。
You don't have to put on airs like that; being natural is fine.
商談で見得を切ると相手に悪印象を与えることがある。
Putting on airs during a business negotiation can leave a bad impression.