can play that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can play that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is expressing the ability to perform a specific action or role, often in a casual or conversational manner. Example: "If you want to challenge me in that game, I can play that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I can play that shot!

Independent

The Yankees can play that game.

The New York Times - Sports

I can play that melody!

The Guardian - Music

Two can play that game.

The New York Times

But the diaspora too can play that game.

The Economist

Hopefully, someone else can play that role next time".

The New York Times

"I don't think he can play that way," Low said.

The New York Times - Sports

You've got to show you can play that position".

The New York Times - Sports

"But if I can play, that would be great".

The New York Times - Sports

And I like songs you can play that slow.

The New York Times - Arts

When it's 10-1, anybody can play that game.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can play that" when you want to express your ability or someone else's ability to perform a specific action or role in a casual or conversational way. It's suitable in informal settings where a direct and simple expression is preferred.

Common error

Avoid using "can play that" in highly formal or professional writing where a more sophisticated or precise expression of ability or willingness might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "am capable of doing that" or "am prepared to do that" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

"Can play that" functions as a phrase used to indicate the ability, willingness, or suitability to perform a specific action, task, or role. It expresses competence or readiness, as demonstrated by Ludwig AI and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Sports

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can play that" is a common and acceptable way to express the ability or willingness to perform a specific action or assume a role. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, especially in news, sports, and informal settings. While it's grammatically sound, it's best to reserve it for casual communication, opting for more formal alternatives like "am capable of doing that" in professional or academic writing. Remember to use it when you want to convey assurance and capability in a straightforward manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can do that

A more concise and general statement of ability.

am able to do that

Offers a direct synonym for "can play", emphasizing the ability to perform the action.

am capable of doing that

Replaces the casual "can play" with a more formal expression of ability using "am capable of doing".

can handle that

Implies competence and ease in managing a situation or task.

can manage that

Similar to "can handle that", suggesting the ability to deal with something effectively.

have the capacity to do that

A formal way of expressing the inherent ability to perform an action.

am prepared to do that

Shifts the focus to readiness and willingness rather than pure ability.

can take on that

Suggests accepting a challenge or responsibility.

am up to that

Indicates willingness and energy to undertake the task.

am qualified to do that

Highlights the possession of necessary skills or credentials.

FAQs

How can I use "can play that" in a sentence?

"Can play that" is used to express the ability or willingness to perform a specific action or assume a role. For example, "If the team needs someone to cover defense, I "can play that"."

What's a more formal way to say "can play that"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "am capable of doing that", "am able to do that", or "am qualified to perform that role". These alternatives offer a more professional tone compared to the casual ""can play that"".

Is "can play that" grammatically correct?

Yes, ""can play that"" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and informal written English. It's a straightforward way to express one's ability or willingness.

What does "two can play that game" mean?

"Two can play that game" is an idiom that means one can retaliate with the same tactics that someone else is using. It implies a willingness to engage in a reciprocal action, often in a competitive or confrontational context.