Play the field
verb
To date or have romantic relationships with many different people.
After his last break up, he decided to play the field for a while before getting into another serious relationship.
Often appears as...
- decide to play the field
- he/she is playing the field
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To consider or pursue many different options or possibilities.
He's playing the field by applying to several different universities.
Often appears as...
- playing the field with job offers
- play the field in selecting a college
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
verb
To date or have romantic relationships with many different people.
After his last break up, he decided to play the field for a while before getting into another serious relationship.
Often appears as...
- decide to play the field
- he/she is playing the field
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To consider or pursue many different options or possibilities.
He's playing the field by applying to several different universities.
Often appears as...
- playing the field with job offers
- play the field in selecting a college
Usage tips
Informal
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Romantic Context
Used when someone is exploring romantic options, not committed to one partner.
She prefers to play the field rather than settle down right now.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Tone
It's a casual phrase, more common in informal conversations and might be frowned upon in formal settings.
In casual chat: 'I heard you're playing the field these days?'
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Perception
Some people may view 'playing the field' negatively, as it can imply a lack of seriousness.
My friends think I'm just playing the field and not looking for something real.
Pro Tip 1/3Romantic Context
Used when someone is exploring romantic options, not committed to one partner.
She prefers to play the field rather than settle down right now.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Tone
It's a casual phrase, more common in informal conversations and might be frowned upon in formal settings.
In casual chat: 'I heard you're playing the field these days?'
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Perception
Some people may view 'playing the field' negatively, as it can imply a lack of seriousness.
My friends think I'm just playing the field and not looking for something real.
Pro Tip 1/3Romantic Context
Used when someone is exploring romantic options, not committed to one partner.
She prefers to play the field rather than settle down right now.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Tone
It's a casual phrase, more common in informal conversations and might be frowned upon in formal settings.
In casual chat: 'I heard you're playing the field these days?'
Pro Tip 3/3Negative Perception
Some people may view 'playing the field' negatively, as it can imply a lack of seriousness.
My friends think I'm just playing the field and not looking for something real.
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