play at

Idioms  

1. Do or take part in half-heartedly, as in She was just playing at keeping house, letting the others do all the work. [Mid-1800s]

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Example Sentences

Wie West retired three years ago after the Open at Pebble Beach, but is coming out of retirement to use her last year of exemption to play at Riviera.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

The actor and producer returned to the stage at the end of the play at Wyndham's Theatre to politely remind people of theatre etiquette.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

When he did play, at the expense of the one signing who was playing well at that point, Ekitike, he looked listless and off the pace, poor value for money at such an exorbitant fee.

From BBC • May 30, 2026

Round-number theory has also come into play at the key $100 level, which previously acted as support last June, December, and again in January.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

“I’ve seen them at it before. They play at field work too.”

From "Kindred" by Octavia Butler