playing field

American  

noun

1. an expanse of level ground, as in a park or stadium, where athletic events are held.

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playing field British  

noun

1. a field or open space used for sport

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Etymology

Origin of playing field

First recorded in 1575–85

Example Sentences

The campaigners say there isn't an equal playing field, with some companies and groups getting more access than others.

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

But we show that if you could identify it, you’d have a level playing field to compare humans, invertebrates, and computers.

From Science Daily • Jun. 5, 2026

Carney said this creates risks that foreign entities could access Canadian data, deploy AI products that shape Canadian lives and “tilt the playing field against Canadian firms.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

“I don’t ever recall a playing field that looks like this one. Usually there’s a clear front-runner,” said veteran Democratic strategist Darry Sragow.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

They walked through the entrance, down the corridor, and finally down the flights of stairs that led to the playing field.

From "The Dead and the Gone" by Susan Beth Pfeffer

Related Words

• arena
• turf