# play a part

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/play-a-part
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- Your hard work played a part in our success.
- The rainy weather played a part in the traffic jam that made me late for work.
- Economic instability played a significant part in the collapse of the government, as citizens grew increasingly frustrated with the rising cost of living.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.