play on

verb

1. adverb to continue to play
2. Alsoplay upon preposition to exploit or impose upon (the feelings or weakness of another) to one's own advantage
3. adverb cricket to hit the ball into one's own wicket

Idioms and Phrases

Also, play upon . Take advantage of or make use of for a desired effect, as in These health care ads are meant to play on our fears . This idiom uses play in the sense of “performing on an instrument.” Shakespeare used it in Hamlet (3:2): “You would play upon me; you would seem to know my stops.” [Late 1500s]

Example Sentences

That’s what led to the creation of this unique play on the Thanksgiving classic.

From Salon

He responded with two goals and four assists in five games and when Paintsil returned, he agreed to play on the left.

From Los Angeles Times

San Jose State University, for example, is currently being sued for allowing a transgender athlete to play on the women’s volleyball team.

From Los Angeles Times

“The main baddies in the game were Kremlings,” Wise said, pointing out a play on words that, it is safe to say, went over the head of most 10-year-olds.

From New York Times

As we hurtle towards Mariah Carey's most lucrative holiday, families all over the UK will be pressing play on Christmas films such as Love Actually to get themselves into the festive spirit.

From BBC

Related Words

• adopt
• apply
• employ
• handle
• manage
• operate
• practice
• run
• spend
• utilize
• wield
• work