Dictionary of American idioms. 2013.
play into one's hands — {v. phr.} To be or do something that another person can use against you; help an opponent against yourself. * /In the basketball game, Jerry s foul played into the opponents hands./ * /Mary and Bobby both wanted the last piece of cake, but Bobby… … Dictionary of American idioms
play\ into\ one's\ hands — v. phr. To be or do something that another person can use against you; help an opponent against yourself. In the basketball game, Jerry s foul played into the opponents hands. Mary and Bobby both wanted the last piece of cake, but Bobby played… … Словарь американских идиом
play into one's hands — do something that gives someone else an advantage If you walk out of the meeting in anger you will only be playing into his hands … Idioms and examples
play into the hands of someone — play into the hands of (someone) to give someone an advantage. If this information is made public, it will play into the hands of people who are demanding an investigation of the police. Usage notes: usually an advantage one person believes… … New idioms dictionary
play into the hands of — (someone) to give someone an advantage. If this information is made public, it will play into the hands of people who are demanding an investigation of the police. Usage notes: usually an advantage one person believes another should not have … New idioms dictionary
To play into a person's hands — Play Play, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Played}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Playing}.] [OE. pleien, AS. plegian, plegan, to play, akin to plega play, game, quick motion, and probably to OS. plegan to promise, pledge, D. plegen to care for, attend to, be wont, G.… … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
play — ► VERB 1) engage in games or other activities for enjoyment rather than for a serious or practical purpose. 2) take part in (a sport or contest). 3) compete against. 4) take a specified position in a sports team. 5) represent (a character) in a… … English terms dictionary
play — [plā] vi. [ME plein < OE plegan, to play, be active] 1. to move lightly, rapidly, or erratically; flutter [sunlight playing on the waves] 2. to amuse oneself, as by taking part in a game or sport; engage in recreation 3. to take active part in … English World dictionary
To play snow one's cards — Card Card (k[aum]rd), n. [F. carte, fr. L. charta paper, Gr. ? a leaf of paper. Cf. {Chart}.] 1. A piece of pasteboard, or thick paper, blank or prepared for various uses; as, a playing card; a visiting card; a card of invitation; pl. a game… … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English
play — playingly, adv. playless, adj. playlike, adj. /play/, n. 1. a dramatic composition or piece; drama. 2. a dramatic performance, as on the stage. 3. exercise or activity for amusement or recreation. 4. fun or jest, as opposed to seriousness: I said … Universalium
