play it safe

VERB

be cautious

Synonyms

WEAK

avoid risk be on the safe side hedge one's bets take no chances take precautions

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.

"I wanted to play it safe because I know hopefully in a few weeks I'll have to go again."

From Barron's • Jan. 11, 2026

Under Armour was accidentally ahead of its time, then lost its nerve and tried to play it safe.

From Slate • Nov. 15, 2025

They can either play it safe and pick an old favorite, or take a chance on something new.

From Salon • Sep. 26, 2025

Greevarghese told me he sees an opposite momentum building within the party and the electorate — a desire to not play it safe.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 1, 2025

I gave myself plenty of buffer time, so I'm going to play it safe.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir