be in play

1. Of a ball in a game, to be at a point or position at which active play is allowed according to the game's rules. The referee ruled that, because the ball was still in play, the tackle was not illegal. As long as the ball is in play, we've got to do everything we can to score a basket—time is running out! I thought that ball was in play, but the umpire called it a foul.

2. To be an active agent or force in some situation. If these other weather conditions were in play, they could change the direction of the storm. A: "There were three people involved in the robbery." B: "I think there was another person in play, some mastermind who planned the whole thing." If you're taking the train, give yourself some extra time—something's always in play causing a delay.

3. To be subject to being overtaken by another company. Is it true that another big insurance company is in play? There would be only two left if it gets merged. If that business is on the verge of bankruptcy, it must be in play, don't you think? Tell him our company's not in play—I refuse to have it be overtaken by a huge corporation like that!