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/
"play up" picture

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.
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