play the game

1. Behave according to accepted customs, obey the rules. For example, Not every foreign company can be counted on to play the game. The game here alludes to a sport with a set of rules. [Late 1800s] Also see play games.

Example Sentences

The Warriors said in a statement that Leigh chairman Derek Beaumont wrote to them on Tuesday to say his side will not play the game over what he perceives to be an "unacceptable" ticket allocation.

From BBC

“Knowing that the end is soon, not taking for granted, you know, a Tuesday night in a city that maybe I don’t want to be in that night ... let’s lock in because you don’t know how many times you get the opportunity to play the game or to be able to compete,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

The Women's Rugby World Cup has drawn huge crowds, tickets sales have beaten those from the previous tournament and its popularity across the country has been noted by those who play the game.

From BBC

The La Masia graduate is undoubtedly one of the best to play the game.

From BBC

Asked if the exchange was him telling Kelce to back off a bit, Reid answered: “Don’t make too much of it. He’s a passionate guy, and I love that part. So I’ve been through a lot of things with him, so that’s all part of it. I love that he loves to play the game. That’s what I love. And it’s an emotional game. So I’ll take it.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• acclimate 
• accommodate 
• accustom 
• alter 
• comply 
• conform 
• fit 
• modify 
• prepare 
• readjust 
• revise 
• shape 
• suit 
• tailor