play with

verb

1. to consider without giving deep thought to or coming to a conclusion concerning

   we're playing with the idea of emigrating

2. to behave carelessly with

   to play with a girl's affections

3. to fiddle or mess about with

   he's just playing with his food

Example Sentences

Last, and perhaps most important, while there is no question that we, like many others, believe that neither Thomas nor Kavanaugh should have been confirmed, there is a critical difference in an appointment for the attorney general, the country’s chief law-enforcement officer, that isn’t at play with those positions.

From Slate

"I tried my best, I tried to enjoy and play with the right energy and the right attitude," said Nadal.

From BBC

It went really well, it sold out in a day, and then it became a challenge of, let’s do more of these but let’s really play with the elements of it.

From Los Angeles Times

The Lakers open NBA Cup play with an exciting 120-115 win over the San Antonio Spurs after LeBron James finishes with 15 points, 16 rebounds and 12 assists.

From Los Angeles Times

“I just wanna be able to support my wife and hold my daughter and play with her someday, and throw her in the air,” he told KTLA.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dabble
• mess