Phrase Hound found 552 phrases and 339 compound words that contain play. The most common are listed below. Open play in the live search for definitions, filters, and the full list.
Phrases 552
- free-to-playThat can be played without payment.
- play the fieldTo cut one's losses by betting on every racehorse other than the crowd favorite.
- play the gameTo behave fairly; to abide by the rules.
- fair playGood behavior; conduct (in sports or another endeavor) that is respectful of the rules, the spirit of the activity, and the adversary.
- play houseA dollhouse.
- play gamesTo deceive; to lie about one's intentions.
- power playTactics used to magnify power or influence.
- play a partTo be involved in such a way to affect the outcome, to be a contributing factor.
- play with fireTo put oneself in a precarious situation with a high risk of getting harmed, particularly emotionally or financially.
- pay-to-playAccepting donations or favors in exchange for favors; corrupt.
- foul playUnfair, unethical, or criminal behavior, especially of a malicious or violent nature.
- play the ballAlternative form of play the ball and not the man: To attack the ball instead of an opponent who is usually controlling the ball. Often considered a positive action, and sometimes a requirement not to concede a penalty.
- play the manAlternative form of play the man and not the ball: To attack an opponent instead of attacking the ball, which is usually being controlled by the attacked player at the time.
- play the systemSynonym of game the system: To use the rules and procedures meant to protect a system in order to instead manipulate the system for a desired outcome.
- play alongTo take part in a charade, deception, or practical joke.
- role-playAlternative form of roleplay: To act out a scenario or fantasy with another person or other people.
- party and playUninhibited, high-risk sexual activity accompanied by the use of recreational drugs.
- out of playUnavailable to be played according to the rules of the game in question.
- Play Online
- play it safeTo take a cautious, risk-free approach.
- game-playAlternative form of gameplay: The totality of player experiences during a game, such as the gaming environment and the competitive interaction with other players; often with reference to a video game or a board game.
- play aroundTo behave in a silly, childish, or irresponsible way.
- double playA defensive play in which two outs are recorded.
- play a roleTo have an effect or influence on a situation or outcome; to contribute to something.
- play outTo play (a game etc.) to its conclusion.
Compound words 339
- playerOne that plays.
- PlayStationA video game console of the PlayStation brand.
- playlistA list of recorded songs scheduled to be played on a radio station.
- playgroundA large open space for children to play in, usually having dedicated play equipment (such as swings and slides).
- playboyA single man, especially a wealthy one, who devotes himself to a life of leisure and pleasure, often sexual, without commitments or responsibilities.
- playbackThe replaying of something previously recorded, especially sound or moving images.
- gameplayThe totality of player experiences during a game, such as the gaming environment and the competitive interaction with other players; often with reference to a video game or a board game.
- playfulEnjoying play; sportive; prone to playing frequently, in the manner of a child or young pet (viz. puppy or kitten).
- screenplayA script for a movie or a television show; especially, the former specifically.
- playwrightA writer and creator of theatrical plays.