Used metaphorically to emphasize what is considered most important or crucial in a situation. In this charity, compassion is the name of the game.
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Not Always Literal
Doesn't refer to a literal game but to the driving force or primary goal of any activity or field. In the tech industry, innovation is the name of the game.
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Cultural Context
Often used in competitive contexts where strategies or key objectives are discussed. In the playoffs, defense is the name of the game.