Play down (someone or something) play (someone or something) down
To give less emphasis to someone or something, to make someone or something seem less important.The politician played down the survey that... Read more →
Play cat and mouse with (someone)
To tease or fool someone or something by pretending to let them go free and then catching him or her or it again.The boxer was playing cat and... Read more →
Play by the rules
To follow the generally accepted rules of something.The team members refused to play by the rules so they were asked to leave the tournament.
Play-by-play (description)
A detailed description of an event (usually sports) as it is taking place.The announcer gave a play-by-play description of the championship game.
Play by ear
To play a musical instrument by remembering the tune and not by reading the music.Although the woman cannot read music she can play by ear and... Read more →
Play both ends (against the middle/center)
To scheme in a way that makes two sides fight against each other.The man was trying to play both ends against the middle when he tried to... Read more →
Play ball with (someone)
To cooperate with someone, to join in an effort with others."If you play ball with the new manager things should go well for you."
Play around/about with (someone or something)
To engage in some play with someone or something.The boy was playing around with the dog when his mother entered the room.
Play along with (someone or something)
To agree to cooperate with someone's plan.I decided to play along with my friend and his plan to buy a horse.
Play a joke/trick on (someone)
To do a joke or trick that affects someone.The boy played a trick on his teacher.