as in to highlight
to indicate the importance of by centering attention on
that TV news program plays up sensational stories just to get higher ratings
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of play up
The Dolphins’ love for guys that can play up and down the o-line is certainly well-documented.
—
C. Isaiah Smalls Ii, Miami Herald, 1 Mar. 2025
Making matter worse is the fact that George didn't play up to his usual standards.
—Morten Stig Jensen, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
Thanks to its clean and simple lines and flattering cut, the dress subtly accentuates the midsection, providing comfort and definition.
Empire waist
The sweetheart neckline on the empire waist style of an empire waist dress plays up the bust and neckline, which lengthens the upper body.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 13 Mar. 2025
The Richardson, Texas native was named the league’s preseason Freshman of the Year and played up to the expectations after returning from the high ankle sprain that kept him sidelined for eight games.
—Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for play up
C. Isaiah Smalls Ii, Miami Herald, 1 Mar. 2025
Making matter worse is the fact that George didn't play up to his usual standards.
—Morten Stig Jensen, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025
Thanks to its clean and simple lines and flattering cut, the dress subtly accentuates the midsection, providing comfort and definition.
Empire waist
The sweetheart neckline on the empire waist style of an empire waist dress plays up the bust and neckline, which lengthens the upper body.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 13 Mar. 2025
The Richardson, Texas native was named the league’s preseason Freshman of the Year and played up to the expectations after returning from the high ankle sprain that kept him sidelined for eight games.
—Joe Arruda, Hartford Courant, 9 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for play up
Recent Examples of Synonyms for play up
Verb
-
Remakes on streaming have been more successful, including Netflix’s live-action version of One Piece, but that project highlights the complex nature of manga and anime licensing.—
Liz Shackleton,
Deadline,
2 Apr. 2025
-
Note: Countries or blocs highlighted have been targeted in executive orders, White House announcements or social media posts.—
Annette Choi,
CNN Money,
2 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
The Blockchain Association emphasizes the lack of developer control over user funds, while Coin Center argues that the defendants’ activity doesn’t justify sanctions liability.—
Andrea Tinianow,
Forbes.com,
10 Apr. 2025
-
Shearing emphasized that there are no true winners in a tariff war, as higher prices harm consumers and disrupt global supply chains.—
Hannah Parry,
MSNBC Newsweek,
10 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Above all, experts stressed the importance of using topical sunscreen alongside a photoprotective supplement like PLE.—
Kristen Fischer,
Health,
8 Apr. 2025
-
The judge stressed that, even after 30 years, public curiosity alone does not justify jeopardizing an active investigation.—
Sarah Rumpf-Whitten,
FOXNews.com,
6 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
There are four championship golf courses; in mid June two will host a stop of the Legends Tour which features players such as Ernie Els and Sir Nick Faldo.—
Laurie Werner,
Forbes.com,
6 Apr. 2025
-
Enjoy peace, quiet, and your very own private pool By Erika Owen April 5, 2025 All products featured on Architectural Digest are independently selected by our editors.—
Erika Owen,
Architectural Digest,
5 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Play up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/play%20up. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share