Play A off against B

usgb
verb phrase

To cause two or more parties to be in conflict or compete with each other, often for one's own advantage.

The company owner played the two managers off against each other to see who would work the hardest.
Visual representation of "play A off against B" - To cause two or more parties to be in conflict or compete with each other, often for one's own advantage.

Often appears as...

  • play someone off against each other
  • play groups off against one another

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "play A off against B"
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Power Dynamics

This phrase often implies manipulation where one person controls or influences others for personal gain.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
She played her colleagues off against each other to secure the promotion.
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Conflict Creation

Using this phrase suggests deliberate creation of competition or conflict, not occurring naturally.

Illustration for Conflict Creation
He played the two investment firms off against each other to get a better deal.
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Strategic Use

Can imply a strategic or clever use of situations to turn them to one's advantage.

Illustration for Strategic Use
The negotiator played the bidders off against each other to raise the auction price.
Visual representation of the word "Play A off against B"

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