play the game

Idioms  

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.

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Example Sentences

While Manchester City wanted to play the game against Crystal Palace on Tuesday.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

“He’s one of the smartest guys to ever play the game of basketball,” Reaves said of James.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 13, 2026

Roughly 21,000 people have signed up to play the game, called “Fantasy Box Office,” since it launched last year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

"Wait for 24 hours, let us play the game which is more important."

From Barron's • Feb. 14, 2026

He appreciates that they are trying to play the game.

From "All the Light We Cannot See" by Anthony Doerr

Related Words

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