Meaning of in play | Babel Free

Definitions

1. As a joke.
2. In operation, active, currently valid, at play, at work.
3. Available to be played according to the rules of the game in question; within the boundaries of the pitch, within the realm of the possible, etc.
   also, figuratively
4. Capable of being won by more than one party or candidate.
5. Open to a takeover bid.

Examples

“You mustn't take⟳ what I said so seriously, it was only said in play⟳.”

“It's hard to tell⟳ which physical forces are in play⟳ at this altitude.”

“This deadly scenario with this hurricane is still in play⟳, so please⟳ take⟳ precaution.”

“now everything is in play⟳”

“The ball is in play⟳ for an average of just seven minutes out of a sixty-minute game.”

“Though the state has not changed hands in 20 years, the latest polls suggest⟳ it may now be in play⟳.”

“Despite the best efforts of the executive committee, it seems the company is now in play⟳.”

CEFR level