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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.

Those tensions are already in play between the U.S. and its biggest adversary, China, which has been no slouch when it comes to space exploration.

From Salon • Apr. 9, 2026

If traditional market economics were in play, patients would have immediately switched to the lower-priced alternatives, forcing AbbVie to lower Humira’s price or face losing its dominant market share in the U.S.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

With support at 6500 broken, 6150 becomes the next level in play, writes Adam Turnquist, LPL Financial’s chief technical strategist.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

Anyone who reads “Fairview” will understand the challenge of producing it, but I don’t think I fully appreciated how much stylistic nuance is in play.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 25, 2026

His claws, clattering across the linoleum, sounded like mah-jongg tiles in play.

From "Typical American" by Gish Jen