Differences between play on and play upon
Play on and play upon are similar in that they both involve using something to one's advantage, but play on is more commonly used to refer to words or emotions, while play upon is more often used to refer to physical objects or situations.
Meanings and Definitions: play on vs play upon
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Play on
- 1Continue playing a sport though there might be a reason to stop.
It looked like a foul, but the referee told them to PLAY ON.
- 2Continue playing music.
The band PLAYED ON for another hour.
- 3Exploit a weakness.
They are just PLAYING ON our fears to get us to do what they want.
- 4Pun.
The advert PLAYS ON the slogan.
Play upon
- 1Exploit a weakness.
They are PLAYING UPON people's concerns to get their way.
Usage Examples: play on, play upon in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
play on
Example
The soccer team decided to play on despite the rain.
Example
She plays on the piano every day after school.
play upon
Example
The politician played upon the fears of the public to gain support.
Example
She plays upon her opponent's weaknesses in the game.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play on
manipulate
To control or influence something or someone in a clever or unfair way.
Example
He tried to manipulate the situation to make himself look better, but it backfired.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play upon
To take advantage of a situation or resource for personal gain, often in an unfair or unethical way.
Example
The company tried to exploit the loophole in the tax code to avoid paying taxes.
To take advantage of a situation or opportunity to achieve success or gain an advantage.
Example
The politician tried to capitalize on the public's fear to win the election.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “play”
Phrasal Verbs with “upon”
Differences in play on vs play upon: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: play on or play upon?
In everyday conversation, play on is more common than play upon. This is because play on is used more frequently in casual conversations and media, such as TV shows and movies. Play upon is less common and is mainly used in more formal contexts, such as academic writing or speeches.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of play on and play upon
Play on and play upon are both relatively formal phrases, but play upon is considered slightly more formal than play on. Both phrases are suitable for use in professional settings, but play upon may be more appropriate in academic or legal contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of play on and play upon
The tone of play on and play upon can differ based on context. Play on often carries a lighthearted or humorous tone when related to words or emotions, while play upon typically has a more serious or manipulative tone, especially when referring to physical objects or situations.
