at play then

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at play then" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is currently active or influencing a situation, often in a discussion or analysis of events. Example: "The factors that were at play then continue to shape our current policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

If this was rugby league's exciting new era at play, then fans are in for a rollercoaster ride in 2015.

The Guardian - Sport

"If they start moving the goal posts and focus on the gripping and emotional issues at play, then you start to get us to a point where charter schools really shouldn't be," said Peter Murphy, director of policy for the group.

The New York Times

There is ALOT more at play then a couple of women out of line.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

At first it is play, then one boy becomes too violent, accentuates what is allowed as play, with the consequence that he is regarded as problematic and is excluded from the group.

Culture, Health and Sexuality

The script was refined and the play then booked at two Israeli theatres, in Tel Aviv and Haifa.

The Guardian

In his new show, SPLASH, up until mid-July at Margaret Thatcher Projects, Betts uses photography at a distance to capture his subjects at play, and then converts those images into pointillated works using a CNC machine.

Vice

There might be an underlying issue at play, which you can then address head on.

Huffington Post

We had a great time at the play, and then we went to a Cracker Barrel for beer and a bite to eat.

The New York Times

The high social connectivity at this play peak then appeared to facilitate further outbreaks.

Plosone

Applebottom will be playing at then launch party for BIASONIC at Fire in Vauxhall on May 10th.

Vice

The Demon Deacons play this Saturday at Florida State, then play host to No. 20 Virginia Tech and finish the regular season at No. 23 Maryland.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at play then" to succinctly indicate active elements or conditions influencing a specific past situation or period.

Common error

Avoid using "at play then" in simple narrative contexts where more direct language would be clearer and more impactful. The phrase is best suited for analytical or reflective writing where nuanced factors are being considered.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at play then" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifying when certain forces or factors were active or influential. Ludwig examples show its use in analytical contexts. It indicates a temporal relationship, positioning the action "at play" within a specific timeframe in the past.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at play then" serves as an adverbial modifier, indicating when specific elements were actively influencing events. While grammatically correct, it is relatively rare and best suited for analytical or reflective writing in professional and neutral contexts. According to Ludwig, its role is to provide context by situating the forces "at play" within a specific past timeframe. Ludwig examples underscore its use in analytical discussion, and thus ensure you are using this phrase in the appropriate settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

then in operation

Similar to "then in effect", but stresses functional activity.

then in effect

Focuses on the operative or active state at a specific past time.

operative at the time

Focuses on the practical operation of something.

at that time operational

Highlights functionality or operation during a certain period.

in action at that point

Emphasizes the active execution or occurrence at a defined moment.

in progress at that moment

Emphasizes ongoing advancement during a moment.

influencing matters at that moment

Explicitly mentions influence or impact within a given timeframe.

factors involved then

Specifically points to elements or considerations participating in a scenario.

then under consideration

Refers to matters currently being thought about or assessed at that moment.

the prevailing influences then

Highlights the most prominent effects during the specified era.

FAQs

How can I use "at play then" in a sentence?

Use "at play then" to describe forces or factors actively influencing events at a specific point in the past. For example, "The economic factors "at play then" led to the market crash."

What are some alternatives to using "at play then"?

Alternatives include phrases like "then in effect", "operative at the time", or "in action at that point", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "at play then" in formal writing?

Yes, "at play then" is suitable for formal writing, especially when analyzing historical events or complex situations where multiple factors were influential. However, ensure the context warrants its use over simpler alternatives.

How does "at play then" differ from "at play now"?

"At play then" refers to factors active in the past, while "at play now" indicates factors currently influencing a situation. The key difference is the temporal context: past versus present.