are playing this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are playing this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an ongoing action involving multiple subjects engaging in a game or activity at the present moment. Example: "The children are playing this game in the backyard, and they seem to be having a lot of fun."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

But while we are playing this game, let me present my own pet theory.

The New Yorker

Twenty-three of his films are playing this summer at the Carnegie Hall Cinema.

The New Yorker

The band are playing this Wednesday, at Brighton's Club NME with the Ryes.

The Guardian - Music

Soon, the two of them are playing this game explicitly, switching roles.

The New Yorker

"If we are playing this football," he said, "we can forget about the past".

The New York Times

"I think I'm a little embarrassed that some of us are playing this special game, given our skill.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

Yes! ELO are playing this year's Glastonbury Sunday teatime slot.

Independent

Which acts are playing this year and which acts are you most excited about?

Independent

Six of the top 10 players on the Ryder Cup points list are playing this week.

The New York Times - Sports

You've got a lot of the guys in the top 50 in the world that are playing this week.

The New York Times - Sports

More than 1,000 players who have left Brazil are playing this year for clubs in far-flung places like Moldova, Russia and Japan.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are playing this", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific activity or game being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "are playing this game" or "are playing this role" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "are playing this" in contexts where a more specific verb would provide greater clarity. Instead of "They are playing this strategy", consider "They are implementing this strategy" or "They are utilizing this strategy" for enhanced precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are playing this" functions as a present continuous verb phrase, indicating an action that is currently in progress. It often describes participation in a game, performance, or strategy. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are playing this" is a versatile and grammatically sound way to describe an ongoing activity or role. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. While it is most commonly found in news and media, it also appears in various other contexts. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the activity or game being referenced. Be mindful of the context and consider more specific alternatives when precision is crucial. Overall, "are playing this" is a reliable and effective phrase for indicating current participation in a game, role, or activity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are engaging in this

Replaces "playing" with a more formal term, emphasizing active involvement.

are participating in this

Focuses on the act of taking part, highlighting involvement in a shared activity.

are involved in this

Emphasizes a state of being connected or included in the activity.

are doing this

A simpler, more general alternative indicating current action without specifying the nature of the activity.

are performing this

Highlights the execution of a specific task or activity with a structured approach.

are undertaking this

Suggests a more serious or significant commitment to the activity.

are executing this

Focuses on the practical implementation and completion of a plan or task.

are carrying out this

Implies a methodical and deliberate approach to completing a task.

are enacting this

Highlights the act of putting something into action, often referring to a law or role.

are staging this

Implies a deliberate arrangement or presentation, often used in theatrical or performative contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "are playing this" in a sentence?

You can use "are playing this" to describe an ongoing activity or game. For example, "The children "are playing this game" in the park" or "The actors "are playing this role" in the theater production".

What are some alternatives to "are playing this"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "are engaging in this", "are participating in this", or "are involved in this".

When is it appropriate to use "are playing this" instead of "are doing this"?

"Are playing this" is more appropriate when referring to a game, role, or activity with defined rules or a specific structure. "Are doing this" is more general and applies to any action, without specific connotation to a game or role.

Is "are playing this" formal or informal language?

"Are playing this" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding vocabulary and the nature of the activity being described. In professional settings, more precise alternatives might be better. Consider "are implementing this" or "are executing this".