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.

The easy thing then would have been to play it safe and hire a big name from the glittering ranks of unemployed managers.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

The German outfit have decided not to play it safe in their first campaign and have designed and built an in-house power unit.

From BBC • Mar. 2, 2026

"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

I don’t think of someone who likes to play it safe.

From Salon • Jan. 1, 2026

“I saw you go into that fire on the floating island. I seen you give up rations so the crew could have more. Some folks, knowin’ when they’re gonna kick it, might play it safe.

From "The Reader" by Traci Chee