Phrase guide

in play

prep_phrase · 5 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

Each Play button uses your device's default local English voice, or a natural local fallback. The selected voice name appears after playback. This is synthesized speech, not a source recording.

No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

prep_phrase

Meaning 1

As a joke.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • You mustn't take what I said so seriously, it was only said in play.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

prep_phrase

Meaning 2

In operation, active, currently valid, at play, at work.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • It's hard to tell which physical forces are in play at this altitude.
  • This deadly scenario with this hurricane is still in play, so please take precaution.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

prep_phrase

Meaning 3

Available to be played according to the rules of the game in question; within the boundaries of the pitch, within the realm of the possible, etc.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: also, figuratively

Topics: hobbies, lifestyle, sports

Examples

  • now everything is in play
  • The ball is in play for an average of just seven minutes out of a sixty-minute game.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

4

prep_phrase

Meaning 4

Capable of being won by more than one party or candidate.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Topics: government, politics

Examples

  • Though the state has not changed hands in 20 years, the latest polls suggest it may now be in play.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

5

prep_phrase

Meaning 5

Open to a takeover bid.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Topics: business

Examples

  • Despite the best efforts of the executive committee, it seems the company is now in play.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.