Play the devil's advocate

Meaning

Present counterarguments intentionally.

Usage

Used when someone challenges a proposal to test its strength.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

See devil's advocate entry; this is the verb form.

From Catholic debates, now common in meetings.