Differences between play up to and play upon
Play up to means to flatter or try to please someone in order to gain an advantage, while play upon means to manipulate or take advantage of someone's emotions or fears.
Meanings and Definitions: play up to vs play upon
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Play up to
- 1Flatter someone.
I'm PLAYING UP TO my boss at the moment because I want the promotion.
- 2Behave in a way expected.
He's got a reputation for being trouble and PLAYS UP TO it.
Play upon
- 1Exploit a weakness.
They are PLAYING UPON people's concerns to get their way.
Usage Examples: play up to, play upon in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
play up to
Example
She always plays up to her teachers to get better grades.
Example
He plays up to his boss to get a raise.
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 up to
butter up
To flatter or praise someone excessively in order to gain their favor or approval.
Example
He's always buttering up the boss in hopes of getting a promotion.
suck up to
To behave in a flattering or obsequious way towards someone in order to gain their favor or approval.
Example
She's always sucking up to the teacher to get better grades.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Play upon
To take advantage of someone or something for personal gain.
Example
Some companies exploit their workers by paying them low wages and denying them benefits.
manipulate
To control or influence someone or something in a skillful or devious way.
Example
Some politicians manipulate public opinion by using fear tactics and false information.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “play”
Phrasal Verbs with “up to”
Phrasal Verbs with “upon”
Differences in play up to vs play upon: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: play up to or play upon?
Both phrases are used in everyday conversation, but play up to is more common. It's often used in social situations, such as trying to impress someone or gain favor with a boss or teacher. Play upon is less common and tends to be used in more serious or negative situations, such as manipulating someone's fears or insecurities.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of play up to and play upon
Both play up to and play upon are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, play upon can have a negative connotation and may not be appropriate in formal settings.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of play up to and play upon
The tone of play up to is generally positive and friendly, while the tone of play upon is more negative and manipulative.
play up to & play upon: Synonyms and Antonyms
Play up to
Synonyms
- flatter
- praise
- compliment
- ingratiate
- butter up
- fawn over
- curry favor
