Sekirov Dictionary

pay to play

noun 2
verb 2
pay-to-play adjective 2
forms 3

noun2

Any kind of charge to engage in an activity.
(US) Campaign contributions (or outright bribes or graft) required to avail oneself of certain opportunities controlled by politicians, such as uncompetitive government contracts.

verb2

To incur a cost to participate in an activity; especially, in a corrupt way.
(US) To make a campaign contribution or illegal payment to avail oneself of business or other opportunities controlled by politicians or civil servants.

pay-to-play adjective2

•
Requiring payment from the player.
- As the lawsuit claims, we’re being programmed to constantly seek a dopamine hit from each swipe in what it calls a “pay-to-play” loop. — 2024
•
Accepting donations or favors in exchange for favors; corrupt.
- Davis's pay-to-play reputation, demanding donations before he would consider policies or appointments favorable to the potential donors, was used against him. — 2004

forms

paid to play · paying to play · pays to play

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