Play Meaning
Play Definition & Usage
To engage in a game, activity, or sport for enjoyment.
Examples
- "Children love to play outside after school."
- "He played football with his friends every weekend."
- "They decided to play chess to pass the time."
- "We often play cards during family gatherings."
- "She played the piano for an hour before dinner."
To perform or execute a piece of music or a theatrical role.
Examples
- "She played the violin beautifully in the concert."
- "He played the role of Hamlet in the school production."
- "The band played a hit song from the '80s."
- "The actor played the character with great depth and emotion."
- "They played classical music throughout the event."
To operate or control a device or instrument.
Examples
- "He knows how to play the guitar expertly."
- "Can you play the video on your phone?"
- "She played the game on her console for hours."
- "I don’t know how to play this computer game."
- "She played the song on the piano for the audition."
To take part in an action or event to gain an advantage, often in a competitive or strategic way.
Examples
- "He played the stock market to increase his wealth."
- "They played politics to win the election."
- "She played the situation to her advantage during the negotiation."
- "In business, you must always play to win."
- "He played the game of business with great skill."
An instance or session of participating in a game, activity, or sport.
Examples
- "The play was exciting and kept everyone on edge."
- "They had a great play during their soccer match."
- "We watched a play at the local theater last night."
- "I enjoyed watching the play between the two tennis champions."
- "The game went into extra time, and it was a thrilling play."
Cultural Context
The word 'play' has evolved from Old French 'pleier,' meaning to please or delight, and has become a central term in both everyday and professional contexts. It is widely used in sports, arts, and casual activities.
The Play Within a Play
Story
The Play Within a Play
In a bustling city, there was a small local theater that hosted performances every weekend. One evening, the theater company was rehearsing a new play, and the atmosphere was alive with excitement. The lead actress, Claire, had been playing the role of Juliet for years, but tonight, she had a new challenge. Her understudy, Sarah, was about to take the stage for the first time in front of an audience. As the lights dimmed, the play within the play began.
Related Words
