Play hooky Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To skip school or work without permission, usually to have fun or avoid responsibilities.
Usage & Nuances
Informal, mostly used for skipping school, sometimes for work. Synonyms: 'skip class', 'ditch school'. American slang; rarely used in the UK (there, 'skive off' or 'bunk off' is more common). Implies intentional absence for fun, not illness or urgent need.
Example Sentences
Tom decided to play hooky and went to the park instead of school.
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It's not a good idea to play hooky before an important test.
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Sarah and Linda played hooky to go shopping in the city.
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Have you ever played hooky just to binge-watch TV all day?
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They played hooky from work to catch the big soccer game downtown.
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When I was a kid, I never dared to play hooky—my parents would have found out instantly.
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