playing the position

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "playing the position" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to sports, roles, or responsibilities where someone is fulfilling a specific function or duty. Example: "As a quarterback, he excels at playing the position and leading his team to victory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Newsome admits that he had to be talked into playing the position.

The New York Times - Sports

This is a violent game and it's part of playing the position of quarterback.

The New York Times - Sports

"The biggest issue is throwing the ball, taking the snap and other things that go with playing the position".

The New York Times - Sports

Entering Saturday, Cervelli and Posada had combined for a.337 batting average, tops in the A.L., while playing the position.

The New York Times - Sports

He said he has to know everything about playing the position, and, he quickly added, he does.

The New York Times - Sports

"I came away from college with more knowledge of playing the position than any other quarterback in my draft class".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

"I've played the position.

The New York Times - Sports

He was too big to play the position he played".

The New York Times

He doesn't play the position I played.

The New York Times - Sports

A master class in how to play the position.

The New York Times

This guy was born to play the position".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about sports, use "playing the position" to describe a player's role and performance within the game.

Common error

Avoid using "playing the position" when a more specific verb like 'managing', 'leading' or 'representing' would more accurately describe someone's actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "playing the position" primarily functions as a verbal phrase, often acting as a gerund or part of a continuous verb tense. Ludwig examples show it describing the act of fulfilling a specific role, particularly in sports.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "playing the position" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone fulfilling a specific role, particularly in sports. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it effectively conveys the act of performing duties associated with a role. While alternatives like "fulfilling the role" or "performing the duties" exist, "playing the position" often implies a more active and engaged performance. Therefore, use it when describing an active fulfillment of duties, especially in sports or similar contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fulfilling the role

Focuses on the act of satisfying the requirements of a specific role.

occupying the position

Emphasizes the act of holding or having a particular position.

performing the duties

Highlights the execution of tasks and responsibilities associated with a role.

executing the role

Suggests a more active and deliberate fulfillment of a role.

carrying out the function

Focuses on the specific function or purpose that is being fulfilled.

discharging the responsibilities

Implies a formal and complete fulfillment of duties.

taking on the role

Emphasizes the acceptance and assumption of a new role.

undertaking the duties

Suggests a deliberate and committed effort to fulfill responsibilities.

handling the responsibilities

Focuses on the management and execution of responsibilities.

manning the station

Often used in contexts where someone is responsible for a specific post or area, commonly in military or naval contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "playing the position" in a sentence?

You can use "playing the position" to describe someone fulfilling a specific role, especially in sports. For example, "He excels at playing the position of quarterback".

What are some alternatives to "playing the position"?

Alternatives include "fulfilling the role", "occupying the position", or "performing the duties" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "playing the position" in a professional context?

Yes, "playing the position" can be used in professional contexts to describe someone fulfilling their responsibilities. However, consider alternatives like "carrying out the function" if a more formal tone is needed.

What's the difference between "playing the position" and "performing the duties"?

"Playing the position" often implies a more active and engaged role, especially in sports, while "performing the duties" is a more general term for fulfilling responsibilities.