play upon
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The audience rose as a brass band began to play upon the arrival of the royal family, who sat in their box in the famous concert hall.
From Barron's • Nov. 8, 2025
The defense has countered that her testimony isn’t that different from that of other bystanders and will only play upon jurors’ emotions.
From Seattle Times • Oct. 23, 2022
Along the way, Berns explains the newest science of how memory, perception and influence play upon our pliable minds, and offers insights into better understanding who we are — and who can be.
From Salon • Oct. 10, 2022
The Angels have not yet determined what role he will play upon his anticipated activation in late June or July.
From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2019
Mr. Levy watched anger and anxiety play upon his wife’s face.
From "A Confederacy of Dunces" by John Kennedy Toole
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.