Play by somebody's (own) rules In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "play by somebody's (own) rules", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

Skylar Chau

2020-07-20 10:07

Meaning of Play by somebody's (own) rules

Synonyms:

conform with

Play by somebody's (own) rules verb

When one plays by their own rules or makes others play by their rules, they set the conditions for something, such as relationship.

To get her approval, you will have to play by her rules.

I decided to play by my own rules and not to let anyone tell me what to do anymore.

Other phrases about:

Caught by the short hairs (or short and curlies)

To have someone completely under your control

What Goes Up Must Come Down

Any person or thing (stock market, popularity, social influence, success, etc) that has risen will eventually fall and return to normal.

beat the system

To find ways of avoiding or breaking the rules, either those of life in general or of a specific structure or organization, in order to achieve your aim

square john

A guy of integrity, respect, and adherence to the law.

Grammar and Usage of Play by somebody's (own) rules

Verb Forms

playing by somebody's (own) rules
played by somebody's (own) rules
to play by somebody's (own) rules

Starting of this idiom is a verb, so it needs conjugation.

More examples:

If you want to stop quarrels, try playing by the other's rules then.

Jane played by her own rule in that project and failed because no one supported her.