power play

American  

noun

1. Football. an aggressive running play in which numerous offensive players converge and forge ahead to block and clear a path for the ball carrier.

2. Ice Hockey.

   1. a situation in which one team has a temporary numerical advantage because an opposing player or players are in the penalty box, and hence has an opportunity for a concerted, swarming attack on the opponent's goal.

   2. the offensive strategy or effectiveness of the team having such an advantage.

3. an action, stratagem, or maneuver, as in politics or business, by which power is concentrated or manipulated in order to subdue a rival or gain control of a situation.

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power play British  

noun

1. behaviour or tactics intended to magnify a person's influence or power

2. the use of brute strength or force of numbers in order to achieve an objective

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Etymology

Origin of power play

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

“We were not sharp in any facet of the game. It’s not good enough,” said Smith, after Utah scored two goals on the power play and three in transition.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

The real power play is for parents to contribute $5,000 a year for 18 years, then help them convert the account to a Roth IRA so that it can ultimately be accessed tax- and penalty-free.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 23, 2026

"We lost too many wickets in the power play."

From Barron's • Feb. 23, 2026

Then less than a minute later, the U.S. took two penalties 28 seconds apart, giving Canada a five-on-three power play.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2026

And she’s not havin’ it—she hits him with her power play.

From "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper