play safe

To not take any unwarranted risks or dangers; to act with caution and prudence. Despite the initial popularity of their product, the company has been playing safe, deciding not to ramp up production until they are sure momentum will continue. I think you should have your car looked at by a mechanic before your big road trip. Better to play safe than end up stuck in the middle of nowhere!

See also: play, safe

play safe

BRITISH or

play it safe

COMMON If you play safe or play it safe, you do not take any risks. If you want to play safe, cut down on the amount of salt you eat. Big tourist hotels tend to play safe with bland international menus. The pilot decided that Christchurch was too far away, and played it safe, landing at Wellington.

See also: play, safe

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

play (or play it) safe (or for safety)

take precautions; avoid risks.

See also: play, safe

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

play (it) ˈsafe

avoid danger; act safely, even if another course of action would be quicker, more successful, etc: I know all these locks seem unnecessary but I believe it’s always better to play safe. OPPOSITE: take a risk

See also: play, safe

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