PLAY UP Meaning and
Definition
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The term "play up" can be used in different contexts, but it generally refers to exaggerating or emphasizing something, whether it be a quality, a problem, a situation, or an aspect of a particular event. This phrase can also imply the act of drawing attention to oneself or making something more prominent than it originally was.
In a sports context, "play up" can refer to a player deliberately exaggerating an injury in order to gain an advantage or to attract the referee's attention. It can also describe players intentionally overemphasizing their skills or abilities to get noticed by scouts or coaches.
In everyday conversation, "play up" can be used to describe someone making a big deal out of a minor issue or a flaw, often with the intention of seeking sympathy or support from others. It can also indicate amplifying or intensifying a situation, for example, when someone plays up an argument to magnify its significance.
Furthermore, "play up" can refer to enhancing or promoting a particular aspect or feature of an event, such as playfully highlighting a theme or attraction in order to attract more attention from the public or potential participants.
Overall, "play up" commonly expresses the act of emphasizing, overemphasizing, or drawing attention to something or someone, often with either a positive or negative intent, depending on the context.
Common Misspellings for PLAY UP
- playup
- olay up
- pkay up
- plzy up
- plsy up
- plwy up
- plqy up
- plat up
- plag up
- plah up
- plau up
- pla7 up
- pla6 up
- play yp
- play hp
- play jp
- play ip
- play 8p
- play ux
Etymology of PLAY UP
The phrase "play up" has its roots in the English language. The word "play" originally comes from the Old English word "plegian", which means "to exercise, frolic, or make merry". Over time, "play" extended its meaning to include engaging in various activities for amusement or enjoyment.
The word "up" is a common adverbial particle that denotes direction, extent, or completeness. When combined with "play", it adds emphasis or intensity to the action.
Thus, "play up" emerged to mean to emphasize, exaggerate, or draw attention to something. It is often used when a person deliberately highlights or accentuates a particular aspect or quality, whether in speech, behavior, or appearance.
Idioms with the word PLAY UP
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play up to
The definition of the idiom "play up to" is to behave in a flattering or ingratiating manner towards someone, typically in order to gain their favor or approval. It involves making an effort to elicit positive and favorable responses from others, often by using charm or manipulation.
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play up to sb/sth
The idiom "play up to sb/sth" means to behave or perform in a way that seeks to gain favor, approval, or attention from a specific person or group. It involves acting towards someone or something in a flattering or ingratiating manner for personal gain or advantage.
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play up to sm
The idiom "play up to someone" means to behave in a way that makes someone like or admire you, often by flattering or ingratiating oneself to gain favor or advantage.
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play up sth
The idiom "play up something" means to emphasize, highlight, or exaggerate a particular aspect, issue, or problem. It can also refer to making something more noticeable or drawing attention to it.
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play up
To exaggerate or emphasize something in order to draw attention to it or make it seem more important than it really is.
Similar spelling words for PLAY UP
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