ENGLISH
REFERENCE

play a role

idiom
Meaning

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


Examples
SIMPLE

Diet and exercise play a role in your health.

CONTEXTUAL

The weather will play a role in whether we can hold the party outdoors tomorrow.

COMPLEX

Economic instability and social inequality often play a significant role in the rise of political movements across the globe.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    child's play

    Something particularly easy or simple.

  2. 02

    go play in the traffic

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

  3. 03

    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.

  4. 04

    hold-up play

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

  5. 05

    play a part

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

  6. 06

    play all one's cards

    To use all one's resources.

  7. 07

    play along

    To take part in a charade, deception, or practical joke.

  8. 08

    play around

    To engage in sexual practices outside of marriage.

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