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fair play

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fair play

 

1. if there is fair play in a game or competition, people obey the rules and do not cheat The World Cup organizers are keen to promote the idea of fair play.

2. a way of treating people that is fair and equal Ministers are demanding fair play and more access to European markets for British companies. The committee's decision offended her sense of fair play. (= she believed their decision was not fair)

See also: fair, play

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