playing it safe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "playing it safe" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a cautious approach to a situation, where one avoids taking risks. Example: "In uncertain times, many investors prefer playing it safe by choosing low-risk assets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Hollywood is playing it safe.

The Economist

Hollande is playing it safe.

The New York Times

They're playing it safe".

The Guardian - Books

But Steel is hardly playing it safe.

The New Yorker

But other firms are playing it safe.

The Economist

Nobody's playing it safe here.

The Guardian

"Radio is playing it safe.

The New York Times - Arts

She is playing it safe".

The New York Times

"But even I'm playing it safe myself.

The New York Times

Playing it safe won't cut it.

The Guardian

We have to stop playing it safe".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "playing it safe" to describe situations where the primary goal is to minimize potential losses, rather than maximize gains. This helps set realistic expectations.

Common error

Don't assume "playing it safe" always guarantees a positive outcome. While it reduces risk, it might also limit opportunities for significant advancement or innovation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "playing it safe" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically serving as a verb phrase within a sentence. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples show that it describes the act of avoiding risks and choosing a cautious approach in a given situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "playing it safe" is a common and grammatically correct idiomatic expression used to describe a cautious approach aimed at minimizing risks. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its prevalence in news and business contexts, reflecting its broad applicability. While it's important to understand that "playing it safe" does not guarantee success, it's a valuable strategy when the potential downsides are significant. Alternative phrases include "being cautious" and "taking precautions". Ultimately, deciding whether to "play it safe" depends on a careful evaluation of the risks and rewards involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoiding risks

Directly states the act of not taking chances.

staying on the safe side

Indicates a deliberate choice to remain within secure boundaries.

playing it conservatively

Emphasizes a cautious and traditional style of action.

being cautious

Focuses on the general quality of caution rather than a specific act.

being risk-averse

Describes a general disposition to avoid risk.

taking precautions

Emphasizes proactive measures to avoid potential harm.

adopting a conservative approach

Highlights a strategy that favors tradition and minimal risk.

following established procedures

Highlights adherence to known safe methods.

exercising prudence

Focuses on wise and careful decision-making.

hedging your bets

Implies spreading risk across multiple possibilities.

FAQs

What does it mean to "play it safe"?

To "play it safe" means to avoid risks and choose a cautious course of action, often to prevent potential negative consequences.

How can I use "playing it safe" in a sentence?

You can use "playing it safe" to describe a situation where someone is being cautious, such as: "The company decided to "play it safe" and invest in low-risk assets."

What are some alternatives to "playing it safe"?

Alternatives include "being cautious", "taking precautions", or "adopting a conservative approach", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to "play it safe"?

It is appropriate to "play it safe" when the potential consequences of failure are severe, or when the rewards of taking a risk are not significant enough to justify the potential downsides. Consider situations where stability and security are paramount.