Play God

usgb
verb

To make decisions or exercise control like you were a very powerful being who can control everything.

Scientists shouldn't play God by making changes to human DNA.
Visual representation of "play God" - To make decisions or exercise control like you were a very powerful being who can control everything.

Often appears as...

  • scientists play god
  • play god with life

Usage tips

Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "play God"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Moral Implications

The phrase often implies moral judgment of using excessive power or overstepping ethical boundaries.

Illustration for Moral Implications
When the CEO fired half the staff on a whim, employees accused him of playing God.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Used Critically

It's commonly used in a critical way to show disapproval of someone's actions or decisions.

Illustration for Used Critically
You can't just decide who gets to stay on the team; you're not playing God here.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Nuance

The phrase can be used metaphorically to discuss actions that drastically alter natural or expected courses.

Illustration for Idiomatic Nuance
He tried to play God by controlling his children's every decision.
Visual representation of the word "Play God"

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