play their part

USAGE SUMMARY

"play their part" is correct and usable in written English.
You can typically use it when referring to someone's role in a cooperative endeavor. For example, "The members of the group were all expected to play their part in achieving the project's goal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Managers' personal incentives also play their part.

The Economist

Budgetary considerations also play their part.

The Economist

"The press play their part," he said.

Independent

The Palestinians must play their part too.

The Economist

Everyone can play their part.

The Guardian - Opinion

But schools must play their part.

The Guardian

The banks have to "play their part".

The Guardian

Neuroses, however, also play their part.

The Guardian - Books

Governments too need to play their part.

The Guardian - Opinion

Emotional responses clearly play their part.

The Guardian

Enniskillen's churches have all been happy to play their part.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure that the context clearly defines what 'their part' entails. Be specific about the responsibilities or actions involved to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "play their part" when individuals are acting independently without a shared objective. The phrase suggests a coordinated effort towards a collective outcome, so ensure that the action or role is directly related to the overall goal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play their part" functions as an idiomatic expression, indicating the fulfillment of a role or responsibility within a group or collective effort. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts, emphasizing the contribution towards a shared goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "play their part" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic expression that signifies contributing to a collective effort. According to Ludwig AI, it is widely used across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Academia. The phrase encourages participation and underscores the significance of individual roles in achieving a common objective. Related phrases include "contribute their share" and "fulfill their role". When using "play their part", ensure the context clearly defines the scope of responsibility and the existence of a shared objective to avoid any ambiguity. Overall, "play their part" is a versatile phrase for emphasizing the importance of cooperation and individual involvement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contribute their share

Focuses on the contribution aspect, emphasizing the specific amount or portion someone provides.

fulfill their role

Highlights the execution of assigned duties or responsibilities within a defined framework.

do their bit

An informal way of saying someone is making an effort or contribution, often small but meaningful.

shoulder their responsibility

Emphasizes taking on and managing a specific obligation or duty.

take responsibility

Highlights the act of accepting accountability and ownership of a task or outcome.

make a contribution

Stresses the positive impact or addition made to a collective effort or goal.

be instrumental

Highlights the crucial or essential nature of someone's involvement in achieving a specific outcome.

participate actively

Emphasizes the engagement and involvement in a process or activity.

bear a hand

Offers assistance or help, contributing to a task or project.

get involved

Indicates becoming engaged or participating in an activity or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "play their part" in a sentence?

You can use "play their part" to describe the role someone or something has in a larger effort. For example, "Everyone needs to "play their part" to ensure the project's success".

What does "play their part" mean?

"Play their part" means to contribute or fulfill a role in achieving a common goal or objective. It implies a sense of shared responsibility and collaboration.

What can I say instead of "play their part"?

Alternatives include "contribute their share", "fulfill their role", or "do their bit", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "played their part"?

Yes, "played their part" is the past tense form of the phrase and is perfectly correct when referring to a role or contribution that has already been made.