plays nice
Shows good sportsmanship
Plays nice means cooperating or getting along without conflict.
The phrase comes from childhood instruction—telling kids to share toys and avoid fighting.
In adult contexts, it describes someone who follows social norms or works smoothly with others: She doesn't always play nice with the other executives.
In computing, software that plays nice runs without causing system conflicts or interfering with other programs.
- politenessCourteous, respectful conduct
- cooperationJoint action toward shared aims
- compromiseAgreement through mutual sacrifice
- social skillsAbility to interact well
- negotiationDiscussion seeking mutual accord
harmony · courtesy · diplomacy · patience · collaboration · teamwork · compatible · goes along to get along · respect · empathy · gets along · builds bridges · tactfulness · friendliness · kindness · adaptability · active listening · well-behaved
plays niceplays hardball
Competes without mercy
goes for the jugular · makes waves · rocks the boat · bulldozes · steamrolls
play, plays, played, playing, player, players, playful, playfully, playfulness