play hell with somebody/something
play (merry) hell with (someone or something)
To cause issues or disruptions for someone or something. This wonky Internet signal is playing merry hell with my site edits right now.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
play hell with someone or something
Fig. to cause enormous disruptions with someone or something. (Use discretion with hell.) Your proposal would play hell with Gerry and his plans. This new event really plays hell with my schedule.
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
play hell with something
orplay merry hell with something
mainly BRITISHIf one thing plays hell with another or plays merry hell with another, the first thing has a bad effect on the second one or causes great confusion. Divorce and remarriage play hell with property and inheritance law. Slugs play merry hell with growing plants.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
play (merry) hell with
throw into turmoil; disrupt. informalFarlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
play (merry) ˈhell with somebody/something
(British English, informal) disturb, upset or trouble somebody/something very much: These storms play merry hell with our TV reception.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017