The heavy rain played the mischief with our garden plans.
play the mischief with
idiomSynonym of play the devil with.
The sudden power outage played the mischief with the office network, causing us to lose hours of work.
The unexpected arrival of the storm played the mischief with the delicate schedule of the outdoor festival, forcing the organizers to cancel the main event.
- 01
child's play
Something particularly easy or simple.
- 02
go play in the traffic
To go elsewhere and feel free to engage in risky behavior; to get lost.
- 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.
- 04
hold-up play
A play where an attacker retains possession of the ball, while the teammates can move up the field.
- 05
play a part
To be involved in such a way to affect the outcome, to be a contributing factor.
- 06
play a role
To have an effect or influence on a situation or outcome; to contribute to something.
- 07
play all one's cards
To use all one's resources.
- 08
play along
To take part in a charade, deception, or practical joke.
Last updated April 17, 2026