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play for keeps

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play for keeps
to do things with permanent effect; to be serious in one's actions. (From the game of marbles, where the winner actually keeps all the marbles won.) Are we playing for keeps or can we give everything back at the end of the game? We are playing for keeps, so be careful of what you do.
See also: keep, play

play for keeps  (American & Australian informal)
to do something very seriously and not just for enjoyment These arms dealers play for keeps - they want the best weapons available and will do anything to get them.
See also: keep, play

play for keeps
to do something with very serious concern about the results These bargaining sessions are most difficult because both sides are playing for keeps. In many New York publishing houses, softball is played for keeps.
See also: keep, play


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Whether you play for fun in the local pub, or play for keeps on the professional circuit, there are many variations to keep you and your friends entertained.
The school runs a Play for Keeps course suitable for children and adults and it is hoped to introduce as many new people as possible to keyboard playing.
Etone School, in Leicester Road, is offering the free introductory music lesson at a special open day on Saturday at Etone's Yamaha Music School, which runs Yamaha's Play for Keeps and new Junior Play for Keeps courses.
 
 
 
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