PLAY INTO Meaning and
Definition
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"Play into" is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings. In its most common sense, it refers to a situation where someone's actions or behavior unconsciously support or contribute to a particular outcome or result.
One way "play into" is used is when someone's words or actions inadvertently reinforce an existing belief, stereotype, or narrative. For example, if a political candidate continually makes statements that align with a negative perception of their party, they can be said to be "playing into" those stereotypes. In this context, "play into" implies unintentional reinforcement of a preconceived notion.
Similarly, "play into" can also mean to cooperate or comply with an existing situation or expectation. For instance, if someone is being manipulated, they might be said to be "playing into" the manipulator's hands by unwittingly following their lead. Alternatively, someone might "play into" a certain strategy during a board game by taking particular actions that further the objective of another player.
In summary, "play into" is a versatile phrasal verb that describes how someone's actions, words, or behavior can either unconsciously support existing beliefs or expectations, reinforce stereotypes or manipulate a situation to another person's advantage.
Common Misspellings for PLAY INTO
- plae into
- 0lay into
- pkay into
- plzy into
- plsy into
- plwy into
- plqy into
- plat into
- plag into
- plah into
- plau into
- pla7 into
- pla6 into
- play unto
- play jnto
- play knto
- play onto
- play 9nto
- play 8nto
- play ibto
Etymology of PLAY INTO
The phrase "play into" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words. "Play" is derived from the Old English word "plegian", meaning "to frolic" or "to perform". "Into" is a preposition derived from the Old English word "intó", which means "in" or "within". When these two words are combined, "play into" generally means to participate in or contribute to a particular situation or outcome.
Idioms with the word PLAY INTO
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play into the hands of
The idiom "play into the hands of" means to unwittingly or intentionally act or behave in a way that helps or benefits someone else, especially if it was their intent all along. It often implies that one's actions or decisions have inadvertently assisted or served the interests of another person or group, usually to their advantage and your detriment.
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play into hands
The idiom "play into hands" means to act or behave in a way that inadvertently helps or benefits someone else, usually to one's own disadvantage or without realizing the consequences. It implies being easily manipulated or falling into someone else's trap by playing right into their strategy or plans.
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play into someone's hands
The idiom "play into someone's hands" means to inadvertently assist or enable someone's plans or strategies, often to one's own disadvantage. It implies falling victim to manipulation or being easily influenced, ultimately advancing someone else's objectives unintentionally.
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play into somebody's hands
The idiom "play into somebody's hands" means to unknowingly or unintentionally do exactly what someone else wanted or expected, often to one's disadvantage. It refers to acting in a way that benefits or allows someone else to achieve their goals or desires effortlessly. It implies being manipulated or falling into a trap set by another person.
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