play politics
Engage in intrigue
To play politics is to act based on strategic advantage rather than principle or merit.
Someone playing politics prioritizes relationships, alliances, and self-interest over doing what's right or effective: She got the promotion because she knows how to play politics.
The phrase usually carries a negative connotation—suggesting manipulation or cynicism rather than genuine engagement with issues.
- voteFormal choice expression
- favorKind act or preference
- horse-tradingShrewd, tough negotiating
- dealAgreement or distribution
- bargainingNegotiating mutually acceptable terms
make a deal · maneuvering · pull strings · bribe · whisper · behind closed doors · smoke-filled room · persuade · quid pro quo · backroom deals · wheeling and dealing · negotiation · party line · strategy · tactics · spin doctoring · gerrymandering · cronyism
play politicsspeak plainly
lay one's cards on the table · tell it like it is · cut to the chase · speak one's mind · be honest
play politicsplay fair
Act honestly in competition
cooperate · work together · pull together · lay one's cards on the table
play, plays, played, playing, player, players, playful, playfully, playfulness