devise a game

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devise a game" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of creating or designing a game, whether it's for entertainment, educational purposes, or other contexts. Example: "The team was tasked to devise a game that would engage students in learning mathematics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Let's devise a game plan.

The New York Times

How do they devise a game plan for a hitter who cannot be stopped?

The New York Times - Sports

Spagnuolo helped devise a game plan last January that helped the Eagles beat the Giants, 23-20, in the first round of the playoffs.

The New York Times - Sports

In it, two boys devise a game that consists of trying to one-up the other by listing larger and larger numbers.

The New Yorker

For the last eight weeks, members of Speaker John A. Boehner's staff have met with their counterparts from the office of Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the minority leader, to devise a game plan on how to respond.

The New York Times

In the days just before and just after the October demonstration, Jeb Magruder, an aide of Haldeman's who specialized in matters having to do with the press, began to devise a "Game Plan" for the Nixon Big Charge.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

He devised a game plan anyway.

The New York Times - Sports

No matter: The lads devised a game that twisted in and among the tree trunks.

Princeton University

They devised a game to be played by two members of a kibbutz.

The Economist

His mother devised a game to cure the child's fear.

The New Yorker

So we have devised a game we call "Throwing Writers at the Radiator".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devise a game", consider the context. It is suitable when you want to emphasize the inventive or strategic aspect of creating a game, rather than simply stating that a game was made.

Common error

Avoid using "devise a game" in very casual settings where simpler alternatives like "create a game" or "make up a game" would sound more natural. "Devise" can sometimes come across as overly formal in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devise a game" functions as a verb phrase where "devise" acts as the main verb and "a game" is the direct object. As stated by Ludwig AI, the expression is correct and usable. It describes the action of creating or designing a game.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devise a game" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe the creation of a game, often with an emphasis on planning and inventiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While suitable for various contexts, it tends to be more appropriate in neutral or slightly formal settings. Consider using alternatives like "create a game" or "design a game" in more casual conversations. Its frequency is rare, but its usage is clear, particularly in News & Media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Create a game

This alternative uses a more common verb, focusing on the act of bringing a game into existence.

Design a game

This alternative emphasizes the planning and structural aspects of making a game.

Invent a game

This suggests originating a completely new game concept.

Formulate a game

This option highlights the systematic creation of the game's rules and structure.

Develop a game

This implies a more involved and iterative process of game creation.

Concoct a game

This suggests a more whimsical or inventive creation of a game.

Originate a game

Similar to 'invent', this emphasizes the initial creation of the game.

Conceive a game

This highlights the initial idea or concept behind the game.

Establish a game

This suggests setting up the rules and framework for a game.

Draft a game

This implies outlining the initial version or plan of the game.

FAQs

What does "devise a game" mean?

The phrase "devise a game" means to create, design, or invent a game, often implying a degree of planning or ingenuity.

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

You can use alternatives like "create a game", "design a game", or "invent a game" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "devise a game"?

It's appropriate when you wish to emphasize the planning, strategy, or inventiveness involved in the game's creation. It fits well in contexts where the game isn't just casually made up but is thoughtfully constructed.

Is "devise a game" more formal than "create a game"?

Yes, "devise a game" tends to be slightly more formal than "create a game". "Devise" suggests a more deliberate and thoughtful process of invention, making it suitable for professional or academic contexts where precise language is valued.