play it straight

Definitions

1. 1

   To behave in a manner that is straightforward, honest, or sincere.

   • He added, "I think the American people want a President who will play it straight in foreign policy, tell them the truth."
2. 2

   To perform a role in a manner that is not comedic or exaggerated.

   • And how can you not admire a man who could star in a stinker like Battlestar Galactica—and play it straight?
   • Peter Schickele, the musical satirist and radio show host whose PDQ Bach Christmas concerts sell out Carnegie Hall each year, is not known for playing it straight.
3. 3

   To avoid criminal behavior.

   • "But the best thing about him is that he always played it straight with us—never double‐dealed, giving us two and keeping one for himself."
   • Belfort, who made millions on Wall Street before the FBI indicted him and he served nearly two years in federal prison, told the audience he could have made a lot more money if he had played it straight.
   • "They could have made a fortune just playing it straight, but that wasn't enough for them," said Gill. . . . The brothers ultimately pleaded guilty to federal charges of conspiracy and bank fraud.

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