play well with others
To habitually demonstrate interpersonal skills by engaging agreeably in social or work activities.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“He is a great teammate because he plays well with others.”
“You need to play well with others if you want to join our club.”
“The manager hired her because she has the technical skills and plays well with others in a group setting.”
“Even though the new designer is very talented, he might lose his job if he does not learn how to play well with others during staff meetings.”
“In a modern corporate environment, success often depends less on individual brilliance and more on one's ability to play well with others during high-pressure projects.”
Attested as a set phrase from the mid-20th century, the expression originates in the standardised assessments of primary education report cards. It preserves the specific language used by instructors to evaluate a child's social integration and cooperative behaviour during play. The phrase transitioned from the classroom to the professional sphere, where it now serves as a metric for adult conduct.
- 01
all very well
All right to a certain extent, but problematic beyond that, or for other people.
- 02
as well
In addition; also.
- 03
child's play
Something particularly easy or simple.
- 04
do well by doing good
To achieve social acceptance or financial success as a result of behaving in a benevolent or charitable manner.
- 05
do well for oneself
To thrive or succeed.
- 06
don't call us, we'll call you
A stereotypical statement from a hiring organization to a potential candidate, suggesting that the candidate will not be hired.
- 07
fare thee well
The greatest extent; completion; a state of refinement or perfection.
- 08
get well
To recover from an illness or injury.
Last updated August 10, 2026