Meaning of the word "play up" in English
What does "play up" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.
play up
US /pleɪ ˈʌp/
UK /pleɪ ˈʌp/

Phrasal Verb
1.
If a machine or part of your body plays up, it does not work correctly.
Example:
•
My car's been playing up all week.
•
My knee always plays up in cold weather.
2.
If a child plays up, they behave badly.
Example:
•
The children started playing up as soon as their parents left.
•
He's been playing up all day, I don't know what's wrong with him.
Learn This Word at Lingoland