play defense vs play defence

Both 'play defense' and 'play defence' are correct, but the usage depends on the English variant being used. 'Play defense' is the American English spelling, while 'play defence' is the British English spelling. It's important to use the appropriate spelling based on the English variant you are using.

Last updated: March 28, 2024 • 1013 views

This phrase is correct in American English.

"play defense"

This phrase is commonly used in American English to refer to engaging in defensive play in sports or other contexts.

Show examples from the web [+]

These newbies don't know how to play defense.
And if Kansas wasn't such a hard team, we would've never learned to play defense the way we did that game.
That does not mean, however, that we will sit back and play defense.
That does not mean, however, that we will sit back and play defense.
Well, let me tell you, if your husband understood how to play defense, had a better jump shot, and was about six foot nine, he'd be killin' 'em in the NBA right now.
Have you been telling the football team to play defense und be aggressive - be, be, be aggressive?
Get the team to play defense.
You got to play defense in this league.
You play defense, you have to tackle.
You need to know how to play defense.
Saracen and smash don't play defense.
If I get up there and play defense, hold my gloves in front of my face, it confirms their narrative.
I'm not going to play defense when I have what Klaus wants.
You learn about people when you make them play defense...
You and I will go in deep, and Ray will play defense to guard against the quarterback's sneak.
You're dating women, and when a woman is mad, You need to know how to play defense.
JUST GO STEP BY STEP AND PLAY DEFENSE.
You need a team who can strategize for your future and play defense too. It's heads-up ball playing with us.
If YOU defend one killer kick, then I'll play defense for three
They never pass the ball, they don't want to play defense, they take five steps on every layup to the hoop, and then they want to turn around and blame everything on the white man.

Alternatives:

defend
play defensively
act defensively
take a defensive stance
guard

This phrase is correct in British English.

"play defence"

This phrase is commonly used in British English to refer to engaging in defensive play in sports or other contexts.

Show examples from the web [+]

Another area where the Commission has an important role to play relates to defence equipment policy.
Like, "we need play Better defence."
As MEPs, I believe we have a role to play in the defence and promotion of human rights, which are violated on a daily basis in Nigeria.
The European Defence Agency plays an important role in promoting defence cooperation, particularly under current constrained defence budgets.
The ball comes back into play, and the defence is in trouble.
The defence will play on her girl-next-door appearance and hope the jury will cry with her.
We believe that the EU has a role to play in the defence of fundamental rights; however, it is the Member States who carry the first responsibility, in line with their traditions of democracy and the rule of law.
NATO has its own Parliamentary Assembly, what role can the European Parliament and national parliaments play in security and defence policy?
In consideration of the geostrategic importance of Turkey and the role it continues to play in the defence of Europe, it seems to us, finally, that it would be appropriate also to table a discussion of questions of security and foreign policy.
They play a major role in the Finnish defence strategy.
As well as those mentioned above it also plays a role in guidance systems for planes, ships, satellites and in the defence industry.
Nonetheless, they have been important in developing the conversion of defence industries, which is a key factor we have to play.
It plays an essential role in the European defence structure, and this is a key element for stability in the continent of Europe.
The strength and security of Europe has depended for some time on the allies willing to play an active role in our defence.
Our country seeks - as far as we are able - to play an active role in the continued development of European security and defence policy.
Galileo is also intended to play a crucial role in future European security and defence policy, which is to be oriented towards armed intervention.
Mr President, a European Union which cannot play a clearly defined role in terms of security and defence creates uncertainty on the world stage.
We all know that NATO will still need to play a major role in the collective defence of Europe for a long time to come.
Daneshjoo also plays a role in "Passive Defence" activities on behalf of President Ahmadenijad, in addition to his ministerial role.
Therefore, the press plays a fundamentally vital role and I also believe that the most genuine and authentic culture of journalism must be extremely sensitive to the defence of human rights and the defence of all freedoms.

Alternatives:

defend
play defensively
act defensively
take a defensive stance
guard

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

play defense vs play defence

"play defense"

"play defence"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text