play at
To do something in a way that isn't serious or committed, or to act like you are something you are not.
Meanings
To do something without proper seriousness or commitment, especially in a way that invites criticism.
"He's not a real entrepreneur — he's just playing at it."
To pretend to be something or someone, especially in imaginative or children's play.
"As children, we loved playing at pirates in the backyard."
Used in the rhetorical question 'what are you playing at?' to express annoyance or confusion.
"What on earth are you playing at? You were supposed to be here an hour ago!"
Often used critically or rhetorically to question someone's seriousness or commitment ('what does she think she's playing at?'). Can also mean to pretend to be something, especially in children's play ('playing at soldiers'). The rhetorical question 'what are you playing at?' expresses annoyance or confusion about someone's behaviour. Common in British English.
Commonly used with
Forms
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Synonyms
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