PLAYING UP Synonyms: 33 Similar and Opposite Words

playing up

verb

present participle of play up

as in highlighting

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

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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 playing up The format treats skin tones differently than digital IMAX, finding more warmth while also playing up the blue-gray pallor that extends the often chilly cinematography. — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 12 Oct. 2026 The Panthers did generate 11 shots on goal while playing up an attacker, 10 of which came on the three power plays in the third period. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 11 Oct. 2026 Recognizable shapes and clean silhouettes were fashioned in calfskin, napa and suede — with python and lizard prints, mirror leather, crepe satin and mesh playing up contrasting textures. — Katie Abel, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026 Meanwhile, third wife Iya Femi (Bimbo Ademoye) is the most cunning and ruthless in trying to defend her position within the household, playing up to Iya Segi’s schemes as her most willing conspirator. — Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 16 Sep. 2026 Thus the 2026-27 season is not about the Rangers playing up to their ceiling. — Peter Baugh, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026 Vance has been playing up to MAGA lately, going hard on immigration and confronting reporters similar to his boss. — Joe Battenfeld, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026 State Farm is playing up its personalized plans with a couple of spots that feature Mahomes, and Chiefs coach Andy Reid makes an appearance in one of the ads. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 26 Aug. 2026 Boobie had also been playing up one — or two even — age levels. — Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 23 Aug. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for playing up

Verb

An everyday habit during a long-haul flight could have painful consequences for certain travelers — with a recent case highlighting some serious dangers.

— Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 11 Oct. 2026
What readers are saying The comments on the article largely focus on the Harp family's upbringing and its impact on their lives, particularly highlighting issues with homeschooling and religious indoctrination.

— Terrence McCoy, Washington Post, 11 Oct. 2026

Definition of highlighting

Verb

The 2025 Subscription Economy Index analyzed more than 600 companies and found continued growth in recurring models, while also emphasizing reduced churn and adaptability as important components of durable performance.

— Adam Povlitz, Forbes.com, 13 Oct. 2026
San, who was born in Vietnam and adopted by a Belgian couple, often nods to her own heritage while emphasizing visual resonances among Asian countries.

— Hannah Martin, Architectural Digest, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of emphasizing

Verb

As part of the app’s launch, Trace is hosting a pop-up from Friday until Sunday at the Shopify SoHo location featuring shoppable edits from eight stylists including Becky Penhos, Carly Jordan, Jordanna Sharp and Alexa Eshaghian Speight.

— Kanika Talwar, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
More than a hundred shirts line the walls, each featuring a personal letter thanking Potts for his tutelage and affirmation.

— PJ Green October 14, Kansas City Star, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of featuring

Browse Nearby Words

playing out

playing up

playing (upon)

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“Playing up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/playing%20up. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of playing up

verb

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