in play
prep_phrase1
As a joke.
- You mustn't take what I said so seriously, it was only said in play.
2
In operation, active, currently valid, at play, at work.
- 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.
3
Hobbies, Lifestyle, Sports Also, Figuratively 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.
- now everything is in play
- The ball is in play for an average of just seven minutes out of a sixty-minute game.
4
Government, Politics Capable of being won by more than one party or candidate.
- Though the state has not changed hands in 20 years, the latest polls suggest it may now be in play.
5
Business Open to a takeover bid.
- Despite the best efforts of the executive committee, it seems the company is now in play.