noun a spherical object used in various games and sports
verb to participate in a game or sport
In baseball, 'play ball' is used as a command to start the game.
Used colloquially to mean 'let's get started' or 'let's begin'.
In movies or TV shows about sports, 'play ball' is often used to create an atmosphere of competition and excitement.
In the context of a writer, 'play ball' may be used to encourage someone to cooperate or participate in a project or idea. For example, a writer may say 'come on, let's play ball and work together on this article.'
A psychologist may use 'play ball' to refer to the idea of engaging in therapy or treatment. For instance, a psychologist may say 'I'm here to help you, but you need to be willing to play ball and actively participate in your therapy sessions.'
For an athlete, 'play ball' is a common phrase used to start a game or match. It signifies the beginning of competition and the need to focus and perform to the best of one's abilities.
In a business context, 'play ball' can be used to suggest that someone should go along with a plan or idea in order to achieve a common goal. A business executive might say 'we need everyone to play ball and support this new initiative for it to be successful.'