American & Australian to treat someone as if they are stupid, especially by trying to get something from them in a way that is not fair.
He's playing you for a fool. Just don't lend him any more money.
play (one) for a fool
To presume or believe that one is very stupid or foolish, or to treat one as such. I'd advise you not to play her for a fool. She may play dumb, but she's very crafty.
play someone for a fool
Fig. to treat someone like a fool; to assume someone is naive or stupid. Don't play me for a fool. I won't have it.You are playing me for a fool! Stop it!