play well with others: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘play well with others’ mean?
The idiom "play well with others" means to have good social skills and be able to cooperate and get along with other people in a group or team.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "pull one's weight" means to contribute one's fair share of effort or work in a group or team.
The idiom "pull one's weight" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It refers to someone who is contributing their fair share of effort or work to a group or team. The idiom has its roots in the early 20th century and is derived from the literal act of physically pulling something with one's own strength.
The idiom "play with fire" means to engage in a dangerous or risky activity, often knowing the potential consequences but still proceeding anyway.
The idiom "play up" means to emphasize or highlight something, often in order to gain attention or elicit a certain reaction. It can also refer to exaggerating or overplaying a situation or a person's abilities.
The idiom "play to the gallery" means to behave or perform in a way that is intended to gain the favor, support, or applause of the audience or the general public, often without regard for substance or sincerity.
The idiom "play someone like a fiddle" means to manipulate or control someone skillfully, often for personal gain or amusement.
The idiom "play someone like a fiddle" is commonly used to describe the act of manipulating or deceiving someone. It compares the action to playing a fiddle, a skill that requires control and precision. This idiom is just one example of the many idioms we use in the English language to describe human behavior.
The idiom "play politics" means to use strategic and manipulative tactics to gain advantage, often in a workplace or social setting.
One meaning of the idiom "play on words" is when a word or phrase is used in a clever or amusing way to create a double meaning or a pun.
The idiom "play one's part" means to do one's assigned or expected role in a particular situation or activity.
The idiom "play one against another" means to manipulate or exploit two or more people or groups by creating conflict or competition between them for personal gain.
The idiom "play it straight" means to behave honestly and without deceit. This expression is often used to encourage someone to act in a sincere and straightforward manner, without any hidden agenda or ulterior motives.
Deciphering Social Integration
The idiom "play well with others" is a common phrase used in the English language. It is typically used to describe someone's ability to work harmoniously and effectively with others in a social or professional setting. This means that they possess the necessary interpersonal skills to collaborate, cooperate, and communicate effectively with those around them.
This idiom is often used to describe individuals who are team players, who can put aside personal differences or conflicts in order to achieve a common goal. It implies a willingness to compromise, a positive attitude, and the ability to adapt to different personalities and working styles. When someone is said to "play well with others," they are able to get along with their colleagues and work together towards a shared objective.
The idiom "get along" is closely related to the concept of playing well with others. To "get along" with someone means to have a harmonious and friendly relationship with them. It involves being able to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and find common ground. When someone is able to get along with their colleagues or peers, it creates a positive and productive work environment where ideas can flow freely and collaboration can thrive.
Another related idiom is "play along." When someone plays along, they are actively participating and cooperating with others, even if they may not fully agree with or understand what is happening. Playing along involves going with the flow and adapting to the situation at hand. This is an important skill in social and professional settings, as it allows for smooth interactions and avoids unnecessary conflicts or disruptions.
"go along to get along" is another idiom that relates to playing well with others. This phrase suggests that sometimes it is necessary to go along with the majority or conform to the group in order to maintain harmony and avoid conflict. While it may not always be the ideal approach, it is a strategy that can be employed to foster positive relationships and create a sense of unity within a team or community.
The idiom "go together" is also related to playing well with others. When things go together, they are compatible and work well in conjunction with each other. This can be applied to relationships, tasks, or ideas. The ability to recognize how different elements fit together and complement each other is crucial in collaborative settings. When individuals are able to identify how their skills and contributions align with those of others, they can work together more effectively towards a shared objective.
Lastly, the idiom "play ball" is relevant to the concept of playing well with others. To play ball means to cooperate and participate willingly in a group activity or endeavor. It involves being a team player, following the rules, and contributing to the overall success of the team or project. When individuals are willing to play ball, it creates a positive and productive environment where everyone's contributions are valued and acknowledged.
The idiom "play well with others" is commonly used to describe someone's ability to work harmoniously and effectively with others. It conveys the idea of being a team player, possessing the necessary interpersonal skills, and having a positive attitude towards collaboration. The related idioms "get along," "play along," "go along to get along," "go together," and "play ball" all contribute to our understanding of what it means to play well with others. These idioms highlight the importance of effective communication, cooperation, and the ability to adapt and work together towards a common goal.
Example usage
The idiom *play well with others* can be used in the following ways:
- 1. She is known for her ability to play well with others, making her a valuable team player.
- 2. The company is looking for a candidate who can demonstrate their capacity to play well with others in a collaborative work environment.
- 3. As children, we are taught the importance of playing well with others, as it encourages social skills and teamwork.
More "Cooperation" idioms
