make a play for (someone or something)
1. To attempt to attract someone romantically. I know she's way out of my league, but I'm going to make a play for Stacy.
2. To attempt to attain something, often through some kind of plan or scheme. We need a quarterback, so we're going to make a play for Jones in the offseason. Most start-ups are formed in the hope that some huge corporation will make a play for them before they get too big.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
make a play for
Try to attract someone's interest, especially romantic interest. For example, Bill has been making a play for Anne, but so far it hasn't gotten him anywhere. [Slang; c. 1900]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
make a play for
attempt to attract or attain. informal 1999 Independent Tracie was seen…heading out for a club to make a play for a cute barman.
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
make a ˈplay for somebody/something
(especially American English) make a well-planned attempt to get something you want: He was making a play for a top government position. ♢ If you want to make a play for her, send her flowers.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017