play

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'play' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as both a noun and a verb. For example, "I enjoy playing my guitar."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At least respect the part you play".

The Guardian

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "We are investing in the biggest rail modernisation since the Victorian era and fares have a crucial role to play in funding these improvements.

The Guardian

She wasn't there to play wives and girlfriends in the boys' scenes.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Who would play you in the film of your life?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Mendes, 34, is in no hurry to do another film and wants to direct a play at the Donmar first.

The Guardian - Film

(The play is set in 1934).

The New York Times

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The Guardian

The public health community has an important role to play in demonstrating the magnitude of tobacco's threat to public health and calling on governments to strip away the trademark protections, rights to sue and opportunities to lobby that big tobacco uses to bully public representatives.

The Guardian

I wonder if the man chosen to play the charismatic Simpson – who won Sports Personality of the Year in 1965 – will come from Shane's trusted pack of actors?

The Guardian - Film

I did a lot of research for both parts of the play.

The Guardian

This ain't no spoof, so play this shit at your motherfucking meetings when you write your jokes, play this shit back when you're writing your headlines for the tabloids.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "play", consider the specific context to ensure the intended meaning is clear, whether it's related to sports, music, theater, or general activity.

Common error

Avoid using "play" in situations where a more specific verb would provide clarity and precision. For example, instead of saying "the device plays music", specify "the device streams music" or "the device replays music".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "play" is as a verb, indicating an action performed. As Ludwig AI confirms, "play" is correctly used in written English as both a verb and a noun. Examples include "to play a game" or "to play a musical instrument".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Sport

22%

Film

5%

Less common in

Lifestyle

3%

Music

3%

Tech

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "play" is a versatile term commonly used as both a verb and a noun. According to Ludwig AI, its use in written English is correct. Its meanings span across various contexts, including engaging in activities for fun, participating in sports, performing music, and acting in theatrical productions. The frequency of "play" in News & Media and Sport, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, confirms its broad applicability. When using "play", consider the specific meaning and context to ensure clarity. While generally neutral in register, more formal contexts may sometimes benefit from more precise alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

engage in

Refers to participating or taking part in an activity.

perform

Indicates the act of staging or enacting something, such as a musical piece or a theatrical production.

compete

Implies taking part in a contest or game against others.

act

Denotes the process of behaving in a certain way, either in a role or in general conduct.

recreate

Suggests engaging in activities for enjoyment and relaxation.

operate

Refers to the functioning or working of a device or system.

execute

Indicates carrying out or performing a task or action.

manipulate

Suggests skillful handling or control, often with a subtle or deceptive intent.

disport

Implies moving or behaving in a lively, playful manner.

dally

Denotes wasting time or trifling, often in a romantic or leisurely way.

FAQs

How can I use "play" in a sentence?

You can use "play" in a variety of contexts. For example, "The band will "play" at the concert tonight" or "The children "play" in the park after school".

What are some alternatives to the verb "play"?

Depending on the context, you can use verbs like "perform", "compete", "engage in", or "act" as alternatives to "play".

Is it correct to use "play" in a formal context?

Yes, "play" can be used in formal contexts, particularly when discussing music or theater. However, consider whether a more precise term would be more appropriate. In some business settings, "operate" or "execute" can serve as better alternatives.

What's the difference between "play" and "rehearse"?

"Play" typically refers to the actual performance, while "rehearse" means to practice or prepare for a performance. For instance, a band might "rehearse" a song before they "play" it for an audience.