Play the game
verb
To participate in a sport or game.
He likes to play the game chess in his free time.
Often appears as...
- play the game of chess
- play the football game
verb
To act or behave in a particular way to succeed or do what is required in some situations.
If you want to succeed in this business, you have to learn to play the game.
Often appears as...
- play the political game
- play the corporate game
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To act fairly or obey the rules.
We expect all of our employees to play the game fairly and respectfully.
Often appears as...
- play the game fairly
- refuse to play the game
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb
To participate in a sport or game.
He likes to play the game chess in his free time.
Often appears as...
- play the game of chess
- play the football game
verb
To act or behave in a particular way to succeed or do what is required in some situations.
If you want to succeed in this business, you have to learn to play the game.
Often appears as...
- play the political game
- play the corporate game
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb
To act fairly or obey the rules.
We expect all of our employees to play the game fairly and respectfully.
Often appears as...
- play the game fairly
- refuse to play the game
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Specific Sports
Used for particular sports or games, indicating a regular habit or interest.
She regularly plays the game of tennis with her friends.
Pro Tip 2/2Casual Enjoyment
Can suggest a leisure activity done for pleasure, not professionally or competitively.
They play the game of darts every Friday night at the pub.
Pro Tip 1/2Specific Sports
Used for particular sports or games, indicating a regular habit or interest.
She regularly plays the game of tennis with her friends.
Pro Tip 2/2Casual Enjoyment
Can suggest a leisure activity done for pleasure, not professionally or competitively.
They play the game of darts every Friday night at the pub.
Pro Tip 1/2Specific Sports
Used for particular sports or games, indicating a regular habit or interest.
She regularly plays the game of tennis with her friends.
Pro Tip 2/2Casual Enjoyment
Can suggest a leisure activity done for pleasure, not professionally or competitively.
They play the game of darts every Friday night at the pub.
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