play on

verb

1. adverb to continue to play
2. Alsoplay upon preposition to exploit or impose upon (the feelings or weakness of another) to one's own advantage
3. adverb cricket to hit the ball into one's own wicket

Idioms and Phrases

Also, play upon . Take advantage of or make use of for a desired effect, as in These health care ads are meant to play on our fears . This idiom uses play in the sense of “performing on an instrument.” Shakespeare used it in Hamlet (3:2): “You would play upon me; you would seem to know my stops.” [Late 1500s]

Example Sentences

Play on, my friend, play on!the sounds you make are very agreeable, and seem to imply that you are happy.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• adopt
• apply
• employ
• handle
• manage
• operate
• practice
• run
• spend
• utilize
• wield
• work