Meaning: To be honest, fair, and straightforward in your dealings with someone, without deceit or manipulation.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “If you play straight with your customers, they’ll trust you and keep coming back.”
- “I wish they’d play straight with us about the real reasons behind the delay.”
- “He appreciated her for always playing straight with him, even when the truth was hard to hear.”
Origin:
The phrase is thought to come from sports or games where “playing straight” implies fair play, adherence to the rules, and avoiding deceitful tactics. Over time, it became a metaphor for honesty and fairness in general interactions.