bit of a game

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bit of a game" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that is somewhat playful or competitive, often implying that there are elements of fun or strategy involved. Example: "The negotiation turned into a bit of a game, with both sides trying to outsmart each other."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

It became a bit of a game.

Independent

"It's a bit of a game.

The Guardian

It will be a bit of a game for them, and you get a little help.

Independent

Knowing Boof, it will be a bit of a game plan".

Independent

"It is a bit of a game of cat and mouse," said a BBC source.

The Guardian

"It was a little bit of a game of chicken at the end," the executive said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

There is a bit of a Games feel about all being here.

Independent

Really, the decision is a bit of a game-changer for the other bidders because, with Ticketus in place, few, if any, of them would have put forward a sensible bid because of the loss of the season-ticket revenue.

BBC

It's a bit of a game-like environment right now, but the company hopes to use the technology to make imports of realistic CAD models into live drone video snap to their future real world locations.

TechCrunch

The "weaponized review embargo" as Polygon's Ben Kuchera recently put it, was a nasty bit of a game-playing that looked entirely self-serving and was the largest issue that managed to unite a feuding games press with their readers for the first time in months.

Forbes

The remarks were a bit of a game-changer in the context of the Bush tax cuts debate -- granting the Obama administration the green light to push forward with legislation that would allow rates for the wealthy to revert to Clinton-era levels.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bit of a game", ensure the context makes it clear whether you're referring to a harmless competition or a more consequential situation with game-like elements.

Common error

Avoid using "bit of a game" in highly formal or serious contexts where a more direct or professional tone is required. Opt for phrases like "strategic challenge" or "complex situation" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bit of a game" functions as a descriptive phrase, often used to characterize a situation or activity. Ludwig AI confirms that it indicates something is not entirely serious, possessing elements of strategy, chance, or playful competition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bit of a game" is a common and versatile expression used to describe situations with elements of playfulness, strategy, or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and wide usage, particularly in news and media. While generally informal, it effectively conveys nuance and softens potentially serious descriptions. Consider using alternatives like "kind of a game" or "a playful situation" depending on the context. Remember to avoid overusing it in highly formal settings to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kind of a game

Replaces "bit" with "kind", suggesting a slightly less emphatic degree of playfulness.

sort of a game

Uses "sort of" instead of "bit", indicating a similar level of informality and approximation.

a game to some extent

Adds a formal tone, specifying the degree to which something is a game.

a playful situation

Focuses on the playful aspect, omitting the competitive or strategic implications.

a strategic exercise

Emphasizes the strategic component, downplaying the element of fun or chance.

a cat and mouse situation

Highlights the element of pursuit and evasion, often with unequal power dynamics.

a matter of chance

Suggests that the outcome largely depends on luck rather than skill or strategy.

a power play

Indicates a situation where individuals or groups compete for dominance or influence.

a chess match

Directly compares the situation to a game of chess, highlighting strategic thinking and maneuvering.

a competitive scenario

Generalizes the situation to any context where individuals or groups are vying for an advantage.

FAQs

How can I use "bit of a game" in a sentence?

You can use "bit of a game" to describe a situation that involves strategy and some uncertainty, like, "Negotiating the contract turned into a "bit of a game"."

What can I say instead of "bit of a game"?

You can use alternatives such as "kind of a game", "sort of a game", or "a playful situation" depending on the context.

Is "bit of a game" formal or informal?

"Bit of a game" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "strategic exercise" or "complex situation".

What's the difference between "bit of a game" and "game changer"?

"Bit of a game" describes an existing situation with elements of playfulness or strategy, while "game changer" refers to something that significantly alters the existing situation.