interplay

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "interplay" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the way that two or more elements interact with each other. For example, you might say, "The interplay of light and shadows creates a beautiful ambience in this room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their vocal interplay is effortless, the melodies themselves wonderful.

The Guardian - Music

There's also a tension between the portrayals of the disease and of the diseased, and in the interplay between the two: some of the details of necrotic tissue, or macerated organs, are so magnified that it's difficult to relate them to anything human at all.

The Guardian - Arts

Not the subtle interplay of periodic symmetries typical of the classical era, nor the curvaceous, subjective flexibility in the flow of time that romanticism relished.

The Guardian - Music

How do we construct this network in a biography and how in turn does it influence another crucial dimension in biography: the interplay be-tween an external view of a subject and his or her inner life?

The Guardian

Like Turkey, another Muslim country with its interplay of democracy and Islam, Malaysia will be closely watched to see how it copes with forces for change.

The Guardian

It was in the interplay of marketing and fashion.

The Economist

For now, however, he and other researchers are exposing a complex interplay of factors.One type of calorie may be metabolised differently than another.

The Economist

This is very much a traditional history, focused on the interplay of powers and the march of events.

The Economist

Running randomised controlled trials, which adjust for such variables, would help to address these concerns but are far more expensive.Another set of problems lies in the interplay between comparative-effectiveness analysis and health-care innovation.

The Economist

Tankilevich, who is drawn with great compassion and complexity, believes he is the wronged one, forced to collaborate with the KGB in order to save the life of his brother who was under potential sentence of death.The interplay between the two is masterful, rich in the wry, ironic humour of Jewish eastern Europe.

The Economist

Indeed, as Mr Zamoyski says, its most striking aspect was the "continuous interplay between the serious and the frivolous"; the "rattling of sabres and talk of blood mingled with the strains of the waltz and court gossip".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing complex systems or relationships, use "interplay" to emphasize the dynamic and reciprocal nature of the interactions. For instance, "the interplay between supply and demand" highlights their continuous influence on each other.

Common error

Avoid using "interplay" when a simpler word like "interaction" or "connection" suffices. "Interplay" is most effective when highlighting a complex, dynamic relationship, not just a basic association.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "interplay" is a noun, often used to denote the dynamic interaction or reciprocal influence between two or more elements. Ludwig shows this usage across various contexts, emphasizing its role in describing complex relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

31%

Science

31%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "interplay" functions as a noun describing the dynamic interaction between elements. Ludwig's AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is very commonly used in News & Media, Formal & Business and Science contexts. To improve your writing, use "interplay" when you want to emphasize complex, reciprocal relationships, and avoid it in simpler contexts where "interaction" or "connection" would suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

interaction

A direct synonym focusing on the reciprocal action or influence.

reciprocal action

Emphasizes the back-and-forth nature of the interaction.

interconnection

Highlights the state of being connected or related.

mutual influence

Focuses on the impact that entities have on each other.

dynamic relationship

Highlights the evolving and active nature of the relationship.

synergy

Implies a cooperative interaction that produces a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.

collaboration

Focuses on working jointly with others or together especially in an intellectual endeavor.

correspondence

Highlights the communication and exchange between entities.

interrelation

Focuses on the way in which two or more things are related to each other.

cross-fertilization

Suggests the exchange of ideas or influences that enriches both sides.

FAQs

How can I use "interplay" in a sentence?

Use "interplay" to describe the way two or more things affect each other. For instance, "The success of the project hinged on the interplay between the team members' skills."

What are some alternatives to the word "interplay"?

Alternatives to "interplay" include "interaction", "interrelation", and "reciprocal action", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "interplay" to describe a simple relationship?

While grammatically correct, "interplay" is best suited for describing complex and dynamic relationships. Simpler terms may be more appropriate for basic associations.

What is the difference between "interplay" and "interaction"?

"Interplay" often suggests a more complex and continuous exchange than "interaction", implying a deeper level of mutual influence and dynamic engagement.