Play up Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Emphasis Effect Used to make something seem more dramatic for persuasion or effect. The politician played up the risks to gain support. Pro Tip 2/3Persuasive Technique Often found in advertising to highlight the best features of a product. Advertisers play up the benefits of the shampoo. Pro Tip 3/3Subjective Portrayal Can be subjective, reflecting the speaker's view or agenda. As an artist, he always plays up his work's uniqueness.