A1verbhigh_frequency_chunk

Play

UK /["/pleɪ/","/pleɪz/","/pleɪd/","/ˈpleɪɪŋ/"]/US /["/pleɪ/","/pleɪz/","/pleɪd/","/ˈpleɪɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to do things for pleasure, as children do; to enjoy yourself, rather than work

In simple words: to engage in an activity for fun or enjoyment.

Examples

  • The children love to play in the park every afternoon.
  • Can you play the piano beautifully?
  • She decided to play in the school basketball team this year.
  • Let's play a game to pass the time.
  • The movie will play at the local theater this weekend.
  • He wanted to play a villain in the next school play.
  • They always play together after school.
  • Did you see that the band will play at the festival?

Usage notes

Use 'play' when talking about activities done for enjoyment, particularly games, sports, or music. Avoid using it in formal contexts where specific terms may be more appropriate (e.g., 'perform' for music).

Grammar pattern

play + object (e.g. play a game, play music)

Memory hint

Think of a child at a playground — they love to 'play'!

Collocations

  • let somebody
  • at
  • with
  • let somebody
  • at
  • with
  • brilliantly
  • superbly
  • well
  • learn to
  • teach somebody to
  • be difficult to
  • against
  • at
  • for
  • beautifully
  • brilliantly
  • excellently
  • learn to
  • teach somebody to
  • be easy to

Synonyms

  • engage
  • participate
  • perform
  • recreate
  • frolic

Antonyms

  • work
  • study
  • labor

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'play' vs 'play with' (the latter implies interaction with someone).
  • Using 'play' without an object (e.g. saying 'I play' instead of 'I play guitar').