in play

prepositional phrase5

1. •
   Available to be played according to the rules of the game in question; within the boundaries of the pitch, within the realm of the possible, etc.

   • now everything is in play
   • The ball is in play for an average of just seven minutes out of a sixty-minute game.
2. •
   In operation, active, currently valid, at play, at work.

   • It's hard to tell which physical forces are in play at this altitude.
   • This deadly scenario with this hurricane is still in play, so please take precaution.
3. •
   Capable of being won by more than one party or candidate.

   • Though the state has not changed hands in 20 years, the latest polls suggest it may now be in play.
4. •
   Open to a takeover bid.

   • Despite the best efforts of the executive committee, it seems the company is now in play.
5. •
   As a joke.

   • You mustn't take what I said so seriously, it was only said in play.