How to Pronounce "play up to"
expression
ˈpɫeɪ/ /ˈəp/ /ˈtu/, /tə/, /tɪ
PLAY up too, PLAY up tuh, PLAY up ti
plˈeɪ/ /ˈʌp/ /tˈuː
play UP TOO
Definition
To try to please someone in authority because you want them to like you or to get something from them, often by saying nice things or acting in a way that will benefit you.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈpɫeɪ/ /ˈəp/ /ˈtu/, /tə/, /tɪ
British English
plˈeɪ/ /ˈʌp/ /tˈuː
Simplified Pronunciation
US
PLAY up too, PLAY up tuh, PLAY up ti
UK
play UP TOO
Listen in Context
He always plays up to the teacher to get better grades.
Some students play up to the coach hoping to be chosen for the team.
Why do you always play up to people in charge?
Stop playing up to the boss—we all know what you're doing.