play dirty

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.

Anyone who’s ever played a sport knows that as soon as some players start to cheat, everyone else feels the pressure to play dirty, too.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

“If anything, me trying to play dirty, I’ll damn near hurt myself. I just hope he’s all right and they don’t think it was intentional.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 27, 2026

He added that he thinks a draw will be a "good point" for Arsenal, who may need to "play dirty".

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

So Graham's willingness to play dirty has always been there.

From Salon • Nov. 27, 2019

“Buffoon!” cried the fat knight “Well,” said Lancelot, “it is your own fault You should not play dirty tricks. For the last time, will you let me arm like a gentleman?”

From "The Once and Future King" by T. H. White