play tricks

• 欺骗或捉弄某人，常以嬉戏或恶作剧的方式进行；也指机器或系统意外出故障、不按预期运作。

To deceive someone or cause confusion, often through playful or mischievous actions, or to malfunction unexpectedly, as in the case of a device or system.

1. Deceive or confuseB2informal

   To cause someone to believe something that is not true, often for amusement or to confuse them.

   欺骗或捉弄

   • My eyes are playing tricks on me; I thought I saw a ghost.
   • The magician played tricks on the audience.
   • Don't play tricks on your little brother; it's not nice.

2. Malfunction or misleadB2informal

   To function incorrectly or give a false impression, often used for senses or machines.

   出故障或误导

   • My memory is playing tricks on me; I can't remember where I put my keys.
   • The old radio is playing tricks again, making strange noises.
   • The heat can play tricks on your mind, making you see things.