play it safe
idiom
: to be careful and avoid risk or danger
I decided to play it safe and leave early so that I would be sure to arrive on time.
Examples of play it safe in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
This desire to play it safe reduces the likelihood of major scientific breakthroughs that could solve challenges.
—
Brian Deese, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025
Investors are trying to play it safe, still cautious that the sell-off could get worse.
—Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 5 Apr. 2025
The Lakers took a six-point lead with 1:51 remaining, but surrendered two fairly easy buckets down the stretch, appearing content to play it safe and not foul.
—Eric Koreen, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025
While many nominees often play it safe on the red carpet, Deadwyler is a consistent standout.
—Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 24 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for play it safe
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Brian Deese, Foreign Affairs, 22 Apr. 2025
Investors are trying to play it safe, still cautious that the sell-off could get worse.
—Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 5 Apr. 2025
The Lakers took a six-point lead with 1:51 remaining, but surrendered two fairly easy buckets down the stretch, appearing content to play it safe and not foul.
—Eric Koreen, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025
While many nominees often play it safe on the red carpet, Deadwyler is a consistent standout.
—Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 24 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for play it safe
Cite this Entry
“Play it safe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/play%20it%20safe. Accessed 5 May. 2025.
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