ENGLISH
REFERENCE

play a part

idiom
Meaning

To be involved in such a way to affect the outcome, to be a contributing factor.


Examples
SIMPLE

Your hard work played a part in our success.

CONTEXTUAL

The rainy weather played a part in the traffic jam that made me late for work.

COMPLEX

Economic instability played a significant part in the collapse of the government, as citizens grew increasingly frustrated with the rising cost of living.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    child's play

    Something particularly easy or simple.

  2. 02

    for the most part

    In most aspects; mostly; generally.

  3. 03

    go play in the traffic

    To go elsewhere and feel free to engage in risky behavior; to get lost.

  4. 04

    grandstand play

    A successful play or other manoeuvre during a sporting competition in which one or more players shows off unnecessarily in order to entertain or impress the spectators.

  5. 05

    hold-up play

    A play where an attacker retains possession of the ball, while the teammates can move up the field.

  6. 06

    in no small part

    Synonym of in no small measure.

  7. 07

    look the part

    To appear suitable for a particular kind of work, position or role.

  8. 08

    play a role

    To have an effect or influence on a situation or outcome; to contribute to something.

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