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play catch-up

idiom

Definition of play catch-up

: to try to reach the same position, score, etc., as a competitor after one has fallen behind
  • The team fell behind in the second inning and has had to play catch-up ever since.
  • The company has been trying to play a difficult game of catch-up ever since its competitor introduced the new product.

Word by Word Definitions

play play

  1. : swordplay

  2. : game, sport

  3. : the conduct, course, or action of a game

  1. : to engage in sport or recreation : frolic

  2. : to have sexual relations

  3. : to move aimlessly about : trifle

See the full definition of play
catchup play catch-up

  1. : less common spelling of ketchup

  2. : a seasoned pureed condiment usually made from tomatoes

  1. : intended to catch up to a theoretical norm or a competitor's accomplishments

  1. : the act or fact of catching up or trying to catch up (as with a norm or competitor)

  1. : to pick up often abruptly

  2. : ensnare, entangle

  3. : enthrall

See the full definition of catchup

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