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

“You have to play the game that is there for you to play.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 6, 2026

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

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2026

“Why are we good for baseball? Because our players play the game the right way.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

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

From Barron's • Feb. 14, 2026

“Publicity works both ways, sir. If Quinn wants to call me a robot, and has the nerve to do so, I have the nerve to play the game his way.”

From "I, Robot" by Isaac Asimov

Related Words

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