Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

play-ball

idiom
/pleɪ bɔːl/
Definition
To cooperate or conform to the expectations or rules set by others, usually in a social or professional context.
Examples
  • In order for the project to succeed, we all need to play-ball and meet our deadlines.
  • She decided to play-ball with her colleagues to ensure a smooth workflow.
  • Even though he disagreed with the decision, he chose to play-ball for the team’s sake.
Meaning
The phrase ‘play-ball’ often implies that one is willing to go along with a plan or agree to terms for the sake of collaboration or success.
Synonyms
  • cooperate
  • conform
  • collaborate
  • comply