in play

ADJECTIVE

active

Synonyms

STRONGEST

alive effective operating

STRONG

flowing functioning going mobile movable operative progressive pushing rapid rolling running rushing rustling shifting simmering speeding streaming traveling turning walking working

WEAK

astir at work bustling efficacious exertive hasty impelling in force in process moving restless speedy swarming

Antonyms

STRONG

fixed inoperative unmovable unworking

WEAK

abeyant disinterested dormant idle immobile inactive indifferent inert lazy quiescent quiet sluggish

ADJECTIVE

going

Synonyms

STRONG

bustling flowing functioning impelling mobile movable moving operating operative progressive pushing rapid rolling running rushing rust

WEAK

alive astir at work effective efficacious exertive hasty in force in process restless

Antonyms

STRONG

fixed immobile permanent stationary unmovable

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The logic remains that a free-kick cannot be awarded if the ball is not in play.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Las Vegas casino giant MGM Resorts is in play, with Barry Diller’s company offering to buy the share of the company it doesn’t own and take it private.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 5, 2026

CEO Nikesh Arora even said a 40% free cash flow margin by 2028 is in play.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

The Ifab has now accepted the request, and says that any foul before the ball is in play that has a direct impact can be reviewed.

From BBC • May 31, 2026

Two jaguar cubs snarled at each other in play as they frolicked on the dirt floor.

From "The Ugly One" by Leanne Statland Ellis

in play

Example Sentences

Related Words