# play the angles

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/play-the-angles
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To seek ways to advance one's self-interest, especially by making choices in a calculating or crafty manner; to scheme.

## Examples

- He always plays the angles to get what he wants.
- She is a sharp negotiator who knows how to play the angles to ensure her department gets the most funding.
- The politician spent his entire career playing the angles, carefully calculating every alliance to secure his path to the highest office.

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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.