PLAY WITH Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "play with" is a versatile expression that can imply different meanings depending on the context it is used in. Primarily, it refers to engaging in activities for amusement or recreation, typically involving games, toys, or playful interactions. The act of playing with something often involves manipulating, handling, or interacting with objects or ideas in a lighthearted or spontaneous manner.
In a literal sense, "play with" can refer to children engaging in imaginative games, enjoying themselves with toys, or participating in physical activities for entertainment purposes. For instance, children play with dolls, building blocks, or engage in outdoor activities like running, jumping, or climbing.
Additionally, this phrase can be employed figuratively, suggesting a non-serious exploration or experimentation of ideas, concepts, or possibilities. It could involve testing theories, confronting challenging tasks with curiosity and a sense of adventure, or considering different options before making a decision. For instance, someone might play with different ideas while brainstorming or play with different color combinations in an art project.
However, "play with" can also convey a less positive connotation, signifying manipulating or toying with someone's emotions, feelings, or expectations. It implies a certain level of insincerity or ambiguity in one's intentions or actions, often resulting in confusion or uncertainty for the other person involved.
Overall, "play with" encompasses a range of meanings, including playful engagement, exploration, experimentation, or even deception, depending on the specific context in which it is used.
Common Misspellings for PLAY WITH
Etymology of PLAY WITH
The word "play" can be traced back to the Old English word "plegian", meaning "to exercise, frolic, or play a game". It is also related to the Dutch word "pleien" and the German word "pflegen", which both mean "to care for" or "to cultivate".
The word "with" comes from the Old English preposition "wið", which means "against" or "toward". It is also related to the Old High German word "mith", the Gothic word "wip", and the German word "mit".
When combined, "play with" essentially means to engage in recreational or enjoyable activity in the company of others, involving participation, interaction, or manipulation of objects or ideas. The word suggests a sense of enjoyment, amusement, or entertainment in the shared experience.
Idioms with the word PLAY WITH
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play with fire
The idiom "play with fire" means to engage in risky or dangerous behavior, or to involve oneself in a situation that has the potential to cause harm or negative consequences. It implies knowingly taking risks without considering the potential consequences.
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play with a full deck
The idiom "play with a full deck" means to be mentally stable, rational, and competent, usually in contrast to someone who is believed to be mentally unstable, irrational, or incompetent.
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play with sth
The idiom "play with sth" can have a couple of different definitions depending on the context:
1. To handle or manipulate an object or idea without any serious intention or purpose.
Example: She sat at her desk, playing with her pen while thinking about the problem.
2. To experiment or explore something without completely committing to or fully engaging in it.
Example: He played with the idea of starting his own business but ultimately decided against it.
3. To engage in an activity or pursue a hobby for enjoyment or as a form of recreation.
Example: They loved playing with their new video games after school.
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play with sm or sth
The idiom "play with someone or something" means to casually interact with or handle someone or something without any serious intentions or commitment. It often implies a lack of seriousness or engagement in the situation, similar to a child playing with a toy.
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have sth to play with
The idiom "have something to play with" means to possess or have access to something that provides amusement, entertainment, or a source of distraction or enjoyment. It implies having something that can keep someone occupied or engaged.
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go play with yourself!
The idiom "go play with yourself!" is an offensive and vulgar expression typically used to dismiss someone or to tell them to amuse themselves without bothering others. It is a rude way of rejecting or ignoring someone's presence or request.
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If you play with fire, you get burnt
The idiom "If you play with fire, you get burnt" means that if you engage in risky or dangerous activities, you are likely to experience negative consequences or harm as a result of your actions. It serves as a warning against taking unnecessary risks or engaging in behavior that could potentially lead to negative outcomes.
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play with oneself
The idiom "play with oneself" is typically used to describe someone engaging in self-pleasure or masturbation.
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have money, time, etc. to play with
The idiom "have money, time, etc. to play with" means to have an excess or abundance of resources or availability of something, such as money, time, or other resources, that allows one to engage in various activities or pursuits without any significant constraints or limitations. It implies having enough of something to use or spend freely without worrying about running out or facing any negative consequences.
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If you play with fire, you get burned
The idiom "If you play with fire, you get burned" means that if someone engages in dangerous or risky activities, they will likely experience negative consequences or harm. It serves as a warning against taking unnecessary risks or engaging in actions that can lead to trouble or negative outcomes.
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have (something) to play with
The idiom "have (something) to play with" typically means to have something that one can use or occupy oneself with for entertainment or recreation.
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play with loaded dice
The idiom "play with loaded dice" refers to someone who manipulates a situation or game in their favor by using dishonest or unfair means. It suggests that the person is cheating or not playing by the rules to gain an advantage over others.
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play with
To interact with something or someone in a fun or casual way, without taking it too seriously.
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