Word
interplay
Phoneticsin·ter·play, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɪntɝˌpɫeɪ/
UK/ˌɪntəplˈeɪ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the way that two or more things affect each other when they happen at the same time.
n. the dynamic relationship or reciprocal action between two or more factors or forces. Often describes how different elements influence one another to produce a specific result.
Examples
“The interplay between light and shadow makes the room look beautiful.”
“Success in this sport depends on the complex interplay between physical strength and mental focus.”
“The novel explores the delicate interplay between personal ambition and social responsibility, showing how one often compromises the other in the pursuit of power.”
Examples
simple
“The interplay between light and shadow makes the room look beautiful.”
contextual
“Success in this sport depends on the complex interplay between physical strength and mental focus.”
complex
“The novel explores the delicate interplay between personal ambition and social responsibility, showing how one often compromises the other in the pursuit of power.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “interplay” in context.
Adjective
01. complex interplay
“The study examines the complex interplay between genetics and environmental factors in human development.”
adj + noun
02. dynamic interplay
“The success of the performance relied on the dynamic interplay between the two lead actors.”
adj + noun
Usage
Usually uncountable; frequently paired with the preposition 'between' to identify the interacting elements.
Real-World Examples
“There is an interplay of abandon and elegance in her choreographic works.” “His diary entries over the course of the month preceding the assault make up the novel’s expositional first quarter, illuminating the interplay of class, race and colourism in the experience of Jamaican queerness.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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