Pronunciation: /pleɪ ɒn wɜːrdz/
noun a word or phrase that has a double meaning or that is used in a humorous way
A1 I don't understand the play on words in this joke.
A2 The children enjoyed the play on words in the book.
B1 She is known for her clever play on words in her poetry.
B2 The comedian's performance was full of witty play on words.
C1 The author's play on words added depth to the novel.
C2 The playwright's use of play on words was masterful.
preposition used before 'words' to show that the words are being used in a playful or clever manner
A1 I like to watch comedy shows that use a play on words to make me laugh.
A2 She enjoys reading books with clever play on words in the dialogue.
B1 The marketing campaign used a play on words to grab the audience's attention.
B2 The author is known for his skillful play on words in his novels.
C1 The comedian's stand-up routine was full of clever play on words that had the audience in stitches.
C2 The poet's use of play on words added layers of meaning and depth to her work.
formal The author's clever play on words added depth to the novel.
informal I love it when comedians use a play on words to make jokes.
slang That meme was hilarious because of the play on words it used.
figurative His arguments were full of play on words, making it hard to distinguish the truth.
played
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more playful
most playful
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will play
have played
is playing
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