fair play (to you)
fair play
1. Observation of or conformity to the rules, as of a game or competition. The only way for this game to remain civilized is if there is fair play by both sides.
2. Fair, equal, and morally correct treatment or conditions. The government's tendency to favor wealthy citizens really undercuts the sense of fair play on which our country was founded.
See also: fair, play
fair play (to you)
Well done! That's impressive! I heard you got a promotion—fair play to you! Fair play! I wouldn't have thought of doing that!
See also: fair, play
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
fair play
Conformity to established rules; upright conduct and equitable conditions. For example, The coach insists on fair play. Shakespeare used this idiom in King John (5:2): "According to the fair play of the world, let me have audience." [Late 1500s] Also see turnabout is fair play.
See also: fair, play
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
fair play to someone
INFORMALPeople say fair play to someone to mean that they should be praised for something or that what they are doing is reasonable. Fair play to The Levellers themselves for putting on musically adventurous support bands. Fair play to them if they make a few quid out of the deal.
See also: fair, play, someone
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
fair play to someone
used as an expression of approval when someone has done something praiseworthy or the right thing under the circumstances.See also: fair, play, someone
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
fair ˈplay
not breaking the rules or cheating; honest or correct behaviour: We want to see fair play in this competition. It may be legal, but it’s not fair play.See also: fair, play
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- fair play
- be game
- in the game
- monkey in the middle
- shell game
- a shell game
- game is up
- game is up, the
- the game is up
- no score