Play for keeps: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Play for keeps” mean?

"Play for keeps" means to engage in a game or competition with serious intentions and a determination to win.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's not just playing for fun, he's playing for keeps.

Example

In this tournament, everyone is playing for keeps.

Example

She's a fierce competitor who always plays for keeps

Is “Play for keeps” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Play for keeps” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Play for keeps” effectively in context?

You can use "Play for Keeps" to describe someone who is participating in a game or competition with serious intentions and a strong desire to win. It emphasizes the idea of not just playing for fun, but playing with a high level of commitment and determination. For example, if you see a friend who is very focused and competitive during a friendly game of basketball, you might say, 'Wow, he's not just playing for fun, he's playing for keeps.'

• 1. Sports

  In this tournament, everyone is playing for keeps.

• 2. Business

  She's a fierce competitor who always plays for keeps.

• 3. Relationships

  He's not just dating casually, he's playing for keeps.

Similar phrases to “Play for keeps”:

Go all out

To put forth maximum effort and commitment

Example

She's determined to win the race, so she's going all out.

Give it one's all

To put forth one's best effort and commitment

Example

He's giving it his all to succeed in his career.

Leave it all on the field

To give one's maximum effort and commitment in a competition

Example

The team left it all on the field and gave their best performance.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Play for keeps” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Play for Keeps" is unknown.

Is “Play for keeps” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Play for Keeps" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone's level of commitment and determination in a game, competition, or other areas of life.

What tone does “Play for keeps” have?

"Play for Keeps" conveys a tone of seriousness and determination. It suggests that the person is not just playing for fun or casually participating, but is fully invested in achieving a specific outcome.

Can “Play for keeps” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Play for Keeps" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as sports, business, or relationships. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations like presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's not just playing for fun, he's playing for keeps.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "play for keeps"!' to imply a serious and determined approach to a situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• compete fiercely
• play to win
• give it everything
• put one's heart into it
• be in it to win it

Antonyms

• take it easy
• play for fun
• not take it seriously
• play half-heartedly