PLAY UP Synonyms: 32 Similar and Opposite Words

play up

verb

Definition of play up

as in to highlight

to indicate the importance of by centering attention on that TV news program plays up sensational stories just to get higher ratings

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of play up With less natural light, Miranda-Martin wanted to play up the idea of dining-room-as-treehouse, reflecting the second-floor foliage visible from the small windows. — Marissa Gluck, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2026 Ricky Saints Michael Cole kept playing up the fact that Trick Williams has never beaten Ricky Saints, which essentially telegraphed a Trick Williams win. — Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026 Keserich plays up short commute times and relative affordability when pitching the region to businesses as a vice president of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 19 June 2026 Rodrigues and Boqvist are versatile options who can play up or down the Panthers’ lineup but are more expendable now following Florida’s trades for Brady Tkachuk and Garnet Hathaway. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for play up

Recent Examples of Synonyms for play up

Verb

The report's authors said the case highlights the importance of seeking immediate medical evaluation after any direct contact with a bat, even if there is no visible bite or scratch.

— Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 2 July 2026
Adou Thiero highlight the Lakers summer league roster that was announced Wednesday.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026

Definition of highlight

Verb

The source emphasized that the Omanis have maintained their commitment to let shipping traffic pass without tolls and noted that the proposal did not contain any mandatory tolls.

— Abigail Williams, NBC news, 3 July 2026
The Coast Guard emphasized the high-stakes rescue serves as a powerful reminder of why its crews train constantly and remain ready to respond at any hour of the day or night.

— Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026

Definition of emphasize

Verb

The two-story space features professional recording studios, podcast and video suites, co-working lounges and meeting spaces, which are slated to open by early next year once permits are approved, Ihm says.

— Kailyn Brown, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026
Chevrolet's 2027 Silverado will feature two new small-block V8 engine options.

— Charles Singh, USA Today, 2 July 2026