1 B2 idiomatic informal
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."
inseparable
play at
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To do something without proper commitment or seriousness; to pretend to be something.
In plain English
To do something in a way that isn't serious or committed, or to act like you are something you are not.
What does "play at" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To pretend to be something or someone, especially in imaginative or children's play.
"As children, we loved playing at pirates in the backyard."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic informal
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!"
inseparable
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "play at"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
soldiers doctors politics being a chef teacher hero
How to conjugate "play at"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
play at
I/you/we/they
3rd person
plays at
he/she/it
Past simple
played at
yesterday
Past participle
played at
have + pp
-ing form
playing at
continuous
Hear "play at" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "play at" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "play at"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
act as if dabble in go through the motions make-believe pretend to be
Keep exploring
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