play one against another
To manipulate two persons into competing against one another in a way that benefits the person carrying out the manipulation.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He likes to play his friends against each other.”
“The manager tried to play the two teams against each other to see who would work faster.”
“By subtly playing the two rival departments against each other, the director ensured that both groups competed fiercely for his approval.”
- 01
another nail in someone's coffin
An event that increases the likelihood of or causes further failure.
- 02
another string to one's bow
Another skill, ability or resource to be used in case of failure.
- 03
as best one can
In the best possible way, given one's circumstances and abilities.
- 04
as far as one knows
To the best of one's knowledge, as far as someone knows or possible information to be gathered about the topic, subject, aspect, or situation.
- 05
back to square one
Located back at the start, as after a dead end or failure.
- 06
beat as one
To share the same feelings.
- 07
become one flesh
To join together in marriage; to develop a unifying bond as a result of marrying.
- 08
bite off more than one can chew
To try to do too much; to take on or attempt more than one is capable of doing.
Last updated August 10, 2026