play up
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.
He showed his strength in bringing the ball upfield when Arsenal needed someone to progress play up the pitch.
From BBC ● Aug. 7, 2026
Leading Premier League clubs also compete for as many as four different trophies every season, meaning the best players are asked to play up to 60 games in a single campaign.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 15, 2026
Yes, Jonny didn't play up to scratch but neither did I. I was trying too hard because I wanted to win.
From BBC ● Mar. 26, 2026
Coach JJ Redick set the play up to miss it to the right side because that was supposed to be the side with just one defender.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 15, 2026
I said that the question had made me aware of how careful Malcolm X had always been to play himself down and to play up his leader Elijah Muhammad.
From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey
