play magic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'play magic' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express to someone that you plan to use an extraordinary or unexpected method to achieve a goal. For example: "Let's see if we can play magic and find a way to make this project successful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"I would play Magic until midnight and never do my homework".

The New York Times

Simon had been invited to a friend's house to play Magic with some other kids.

The New Yorker

At a party in Bamako, I heard a guy named Toumani Diabati play magic on a stringed kora.

The New York Times

Luckily there is a bit of Play magic (also known as implicit conversion) to do just that.

The Guardian

"Will you play Magic Clips with me?" But I push myself to do it, and do it happily, because, well, it makes them so happy.

University of California, Berkeley

Loosely based on the 1969 play "Magic Afternoon" by the Austrian writer Wolfgang Bauer, Ms. Jelski's film follows a fateful day in the life of Charlie Fox (well played by Devon Gummersall, a onetime heartthrob on the television series "Felicity"), the spoiled and soulless 20-ish son of a vastly successful British director.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

One size does not fit all — and there are no plug-and-play magic bullets.

Harvard Business Review

With defenders closing in on him on first-and-20, Manning attempted a little of the late-play magic that made him a Super Bowl winner.

The New York Times - Sports

For some reason, Rodriguez's carrying the Yankees to the World Series title in 2009 could not even make a dent in the belief that he cannot summon the big-play magic that some of his teammates can.

The New York Times

"When we started playing Magic it was brand-new," Mr. Finkel said.

The New York Times

By playing magic cooperatively between human and robot magicians, we can make a new world of magic entertainment where the conventional magic show can not do.

ROBOMECH Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "play magic" when you want to suggest using inventive or unconventional methods to solve a problem or achieve a goal.

Common error

Avoid using "play magic" in serious or formal contexts where a straightforward, practical approach is expected. The phrase implies a sense of whimsy or improvisation that might be inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play magic" functions as a verb phrase, where "play" acts as the verb and "magic" as the direct object. It suggests engaging in or utilizing extraordinary or unconventional methods to achieve a desired outcome. As Ludwig AI suggests, it generally means to use an extraordinary or unexpected method.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "play magic" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression that implies using creative or unconventional methods to achieve a goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys a sense of ingenuity and improvisation. It is most commonly found in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts, indicating a somewhat informal register. While not extremely frequent, its usage is consistent and understandable. When considering alternative expressions, "use magic" or "work wonders" can be suitable substitutes depending on the desired nuance. Remember to avoid using it in highly formal contexts where a more direct approach is expected. The examples in Ludwig demonstrate its versatility in describing both literal magical acts and figurative problem-solving strategies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

use magic

A more general phrase simply indicating the utilization of magical abilities or forces.

perform magic

Focuses on the act of showing magic, implying a more active and demonstrable use of magical ability.

conjure magic

Suggests creating or summoning magic, implying an act of bringing magic into existence.

invoke magic

Suggests calling upon magical forces or entities, often in a ritualistic context.

wield magic

Highlights the control and command over magic, implying power and skill in its application.

practice magic

Implies repeated exercise and development of magical skills.

display magic

Emphasizes the visual or performative aspect of magic, focusing on showing it to others.

cast a spell

Refers specifically to the act of using a magical formula or ritual to achieve a particular effect.

enchant

To influence by charms and spells

work wonders

Focuses on the positive and beneficial effects achieved through means that seem almost magical.

FAQs

What does it mean to "play magic" in a situation?

To "play magic" means to try and solve a problem or achieve a goal using creative, unexpected, or seemingly impossible methods. It suggests a bit of improvisation and ingenuity.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "play magic"?

It's appropriate to use the phrase in informal settings when discussing finding creative solutions or when suggesting an unconventional approach. It fits well in situations where thinking outside the box is encouraged.

What are some alternative ways to say "play magic"?

You could use alternatives like "use magic", "work wonders", or "conjure magic" depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "play magic" a literal or figurative expression?

It's a figurative expression. While it can refer to actual magic in fantasy or fictional contexts, more often it suggests doing something extraordinary or unexpected to achieve a desired result.