play up

British  

verb

1. (tr) to emphasize or highlight

   to play up one's best features

2. informal to behave irritatingly (towards)

3. informal (intr) (of a machine, car, etc) to function erratically

   the car is playing up again

4. informal to hurt; give (one) pain or trouble

   my back's playing me up again

5. 1. to support (another actor) in a performance

   2. to try to gain favour with by flattery

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play up Idioms  

1. Emphasize or publicize, as in In the press interview, the coach played up the importance of having a strong defense. [c. 1900] Also see play down; play up to.

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Example Sentences

When she asks about Jacobs being axed from the brand, he reveals that it’s not entirely true, but that it is an account he enjoys playing up and going along with.

From Salon

Yes, Jonny didn't play up to scratch but neither did I. I was trying too hard because I wanted to win.

From BBC

And swing she does: Pedretti plays up Cherry’s emotional volatility, giving her a full-bodied form of expression.

From Los Angeles Times

Kenia Os played up her cute and cuddly side in her previous album, 2024’s “Pink Aura” — but with her upcoming album “K de Karma,” out Friday, Os is putting that era to bed.

From Los Angeles Times

Earlier this month, Norris played up his apparent indestructibility by throwing punches in an Instagram posting celebrating his 86th birthday.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• point up