Definitions

in play

ADJECTIVE

active

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alive effective operating

STRONG

flowing functioning going mobile movable operative progressive pushing rapid rolling running rushing rustling shifting simmering speeding streaming traveling turning walking working

WEAK

astir at work bustling efficacious exertive hasty impelling in force in process moving restless speedy swarming

Antonyms

STRONG

fixed inoperative unmovable unworking

WEAK

abeyant disinterested dormant idle immobile inactive indifferent inert lazy quiescent quiet sluggish

ADJECTIVE

going

Synonyms

STRONG

bustling flowing functioning impelling mobile movable moving operating operative progressive pushing rapid rolling running rushing rust

WEAK

alive astir at work effective efficacious exertive hasty in force in process restless

Antonyms

STRONG

fixed immobile permanent stationary unmovable

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.

There will be “tightening noises,” he said, but with no pickup in wages and “Teflon” inflation in play, he believes the Fed will stay on hold this year.

From MarketWatch • Jul. 2, 2026

They still lasted 90 minutes, but the ball tended to remain in play for up to 10 extra minutes.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 1, 2026

Ramón Valle-Inclán wrote his 1920 critique of Spain’s monarchy in play form, fueled by fried dough, “cacao… bread of the gods,” and long nights below Chocolatería San Ginés.

From Salon • Jun. 23, 2026

While they have been welcomed by some national team bosses, the fans seem less keen and both England and Croatia supporters united in the air-conditioned Dallas Stadium to jeer the break in play on Wednesday.

From BBC • Jun. 18, 2026

Bran grabbed the wolf by his ears and Summer snapped at him fiercely, but it was all in play.

From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin

in play

Example Sentences

Related Words