play off
To use one thing against another, or to play a final game to decide a winner.
Meanings
(Sport) To compete in a deciding match or tie-breaker after a draw.
"The two teams will play off on Saturday to decide who advances."
To manipulate two people or groups by setting them against each other, often for personal gain.
"She played her two managers off against each other to get the best deal."
To use or exploit a contrast between two elements for effect, humor, or advantage.
"The comedian played the absurdity of the situation off against his deadpan delivery."
In sports, a 'play-off' (noun) is a deciding match. Idiomatically, 'play X off against Y' means to manipulate two parties by setting them in competition. Common in British English.
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Forms
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