Play havoc with Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈpɫeɪ/ /ˈhævək/ /ˈwɪð/, /ˈwɪθ/, /wɪð/, /wɪθ

PLAY HAV-uhk WITH

UK

plˈeɪ/ /hˈævək/ /wˈɪð

PLAY HAV-uk WITH

Definition

To cause a lot of damage, disorder, or problems to something.

Usage & Nuances

Mainly used in semi-formal or informal settings. Often describes unexpected negative consequences from weather, illness, technology failures, or sudden events. Common collocation is 'play havoc with' + system/body/plans/schedule. Not used for intentional, planned damage.

• Spanish: causar estragos en - desorganizar
• Portuguese (BR): bagunçar - causar estragos em
• Portuguese (PT): causar estragos em - desorganizar
• Chinese (Simplified): 严重扰乱 - 造成混乱
• Chinese (Traditional): 嚴重擾亂 - 造成混亂
• Hindi: बुरी तरह से प्रभावित करना - अस्त-व्यस्त करना
• Arabic: يُحدث فوضى في - يدمر
• Bengali: ভীষণ ক্ষতি করা - বিশৃঙ্খলা সৃষ্টি করা - নষ্ট করে ফেলা
• Russian: нарушать - выводить из строя - серьёзно вредить
• Japanese: 大混乱を引き起こす - 台無しにする
• Vietnamese: gây rối loạn nghiêm trọng - phá vỡ nghiêm trọng
• Korean: 엉망으로 만들다 - 심각한 문제를 일으키다
• Turkish: altüst etmek - büyük sıkıntı yaratmak
• Urdu: تباہ و برباد کرنا - بری طرح نقصان پہنچانا
• Indonesian: mengacaukan - merusak parah

Example Sentences

Storms can play havoc with travel plans.

basic

Cold weather can play havoc with your car battery.

basic

The new software update played havoc with my phone.

basic

Not sleeping well can really play havoc with your concentration.

natural

The power outage played havoc with our work schedule.

natural

Allergies can play havoc with your plans for outdoor fun.

natural