How to Pronounce "play off against"
expression
PLAY-awf uh-GAYNST, uh-GENST
play-OFF uh-GENST
Definition
To encourage competition or conflict between two people or groups, usually to gain an advantage for yourself.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈpɫeɪ/ /ˈɔf/ /əˈɡeɪnst/, /əˈɡɛnst
British English
plˈeɪ/ /ˈɒf/ /ɐɡˈɛnst
Simplified Pronunciation
US
PLAY-awf uh-GAYNST, uh-GENST
UK
play-OFF uh-GENST
Listen in Context
Managers sometimes play off against their employees to get better results.
He tried to play off against his parents to get what he wanted.
The company played off against its two suppliers to get a lower price.
Politicians often play off against their opponents to win votes.