Fixed expressions
Idioms
English fixed expressions — phrases whose meaning isn't obvious from the individual words. Each entry shows the meaning, an example sentence, and its register.
Idioms containing play, including its inflections. Clear word filter
4 idioms
play ball
CEFR B2to cooperate or agree to do what someone wants
Informal
play it by ear
CEFR B2To deal with a situation as it develops rather than following a fixed plan.
Informal
play the field
CEFR B2to date several people without committing to one partner
Informal
whack-a-mole
CEFR B2a repetitive, endless cycle in which fixing one problem immediately causes or reveals another
Informal
Matching variant: playing whack-a-mole