play devil's advocate
Say it: play DEV-uhlz AD-vuh-kuht /ˌpleɪ ˌdɛvəlz ˈædvəkət/ · idiom
What “play devil's advocate” means
Argue the opposite view to test an idea.
More precisely: To argue against an idea, without necessarily believing it, to test it.
Example: “Let me play devil's advocate: what if customers don't want this feature?”
When to use it
In discussions, when you challenge an idea to test it, even if you do not personally disagree.
Similar words
argue the other side, take the opposing view
Where it comes from
From the Catholic official who argued against a candidate being made a saint.
Quick check
You support the new playground, but raise possible noise problems so the group can test its plan. What are you doing?
pick holes or play devil's advocate?
Show the answer
play devil's advocate
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