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REFERENCE

play the deuce with

idiom
Meaning

Synonym of play the devil with.


Examples
SIMPLE

The heavy rain played the deuce with our plans.

CONTEXTUAL

The sudden power outage played the deuce with the office schedule, forcing us to delay the project deadline.

COMPLEX

His unexpected resignation played the deuce with the department's long-term strategy, leaving the remaining staff to manage the resulting chaos.

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 a role

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

  7. 07

    play all one's cards

    To use all one's resources.

  8. 08

    play along

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

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