play each other

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'play each other' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when talking about two teams or people competing in a game or sport against each other. For example, "The two teams will play each other in two weeks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Until they play each other".

The New Yorker

And when they play each other?

The New Yorker

They play each other later Saturday.

The New York Times

The other two will play each other.

The New Yorker

The teams play each other seven more times.

The New York Times - Sports

They play each other in Dallas on Nov. 29.

The New York Times - Sports

We'd like to play each other in the future.

The New York Times - Sports

Didn't these two sides just play each other?

The Guardian - Sport

They will play each other in the semifinals on Friday.

The New York Times

Clubs to play each other once, either home or away.

The Guardian - Sport

Colleges that are the most bitter rivals play each other.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "play each other" to clearly indicate a direct competition or interaction between two or more parties, especially in sports, games, or strategic scenarios.

Common error

While "play each other" is suitable for describing competitive scenarios, avoid using it in contexts where the interaction is collaborative or non-competitive. Opt for phrases like "work together" or "collaborate" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play each other" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating a reciprocal action between two or more entities. It typically describes a competitive interaction, such as a game or sport, where participants engage in direct opposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "play each other" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a competitive interaction, typically within the realm of sports and games. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and widespread. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various communication contexts, primarily news and media. While highly effective in competitive scenarios, avoid its use in contexts that call for collaboration. Consider alternatives like "compete against one another" or "face off" to convey similar meanings with subtle contextual differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compete against one another

Emphasizes the competitive aspect of the interaction, using a more formal tone.

face off

Suggests a direct confrontation or contest, commonly used in sports contexts.

go head-to-head

Highlights a direct comparison or competition between individuals or teams.

match up

Focuses on the pairing or arrangement of competitors, implying a planned encounter.

vie with each other

Implies a striving or contending effort, often in pursuit of a common goal.

battle it out

Suggests a fierce and determined competition, often with high stakes.

take on one another

Implies accepting a challenge or engaging in a contest against another party.

cross swords

A more metaphorical term implying conflict or disagreement.

have a match

A more general expression for engaging in a competitive game or contest.

lock horns

This idiom means to engage in a conflict or dispute.

FAQs

How can I use "play each other" in a sentence?

Use "play each other" to describe a competitive interaction, such as "The teams will "play each other" in the finals next week."

What are some alternatives to "play each other"?

Alternatives include "compete against one another", "face off", or "go head-to-head" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "playing each other"?

Yes, "playing each other" is the correct progressive form, often used to describe an ongoing or scheduled match: "They are "playing each other" right now".

What's the difference between "play each other" and "play against each other"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. "Play each other" is more common and concise, while "play against each other" emphasizes the opposition more explicitly but carries the same meaning.