in play
Idioms-
In action or operation. For example, A number of conflicting forces were in play, so the outcome was uncertain . It is also put as bring into play , meaning “to put into action,” as in The surprise witness brought new evidence into play . [Mid-1600s]
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In sports, in a position to be legally or feasibly played, as in The ball is now in play . [Late 1700s]
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In business, in a position for a possible corporate takeover, as in After a news item said the company was in play, the price of its stock began to rise . [ Colloquial ; second half of 1900s]
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As has always been the case when reverse swing is in play, pacers are bowling fuller and utilising more inswing now the ball is reversing.
From BBC ● Oct. 19, 2026
Microsoft’s new chip puts all three possibilities in play.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 16, 2026
"By having Opal in play now, we can see the collective impact across the country," said Insp Chris Thoday.
From BBC ● Sep. 17, 2026
Mulligan should win for her darkly funny, cringe-inducing turn, though Snook, Pidgeon and sentimental favorite Field are all in play too.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 9, 2026
Farther up the prairie, a kitten tore past Jinny’s feet, in play.
From "Orphan Island" by Laurel Snyder
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
