Pronunciation: [hav tə plˈe͡ɪ kˈat͡ʃ ˈʌp] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "have to play catch up" is [hav tə plˈe͡ɪ kˈat͡ʃ ˈʌp], [hav tə plˈeɪ kˈatʃ ˈʌp], [h_a_v t_ə p_l_ˈeɪ k_ˈa_tʃ ˈʌ_p] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
To "have to play catch up" is an idiomatic expression commonly used to convey the need for someone to make extra or significant efforts to reach a level considered equal or comparable to others. It refers to a situation where an individual or a group has fallen behind in their progress, skill, knowledge, or completion of tasks and must undertake actions to catch up with their peers or competitors.
The phrase often implies a sense of urgency or pressure, as well as a recognition that the person or group is currently at a disadvantage and needs to exert extra effort to bridge the gap or achieve parity. It implies that the person or group is striving to reach a point that is closer to where others are already positioned.
When someone says they "have to play catch up," it suggests that they have a lot of ground to cover to attain the desired position or outcome. It may involve working harder, studying intensively, or investing additional time and resources to make up for lost time or be on a similar level as others. It implies a determination to not allow their current state of lagging behind to hinder their progress any further.
Overall, "having to play catch up" conveys the notion of putting in added effort to overcome a disadvantage, whether it be in terms of knowledge, skills, accomplishments, or any other area, to reach a level of equality or equivalence with others.
