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How to pronounce play
Say it like this: /pleɪ̯/ [pɫ̥eɪ̯ ~ pʰɫeɪ̯]. Listen to real recordings below and compare how it sounds in different accents.
What does play mean?
verbTo act in a manner such that one has fun; to engage in activities expressly for the purpose of recreation or entertainment.
“The children played in the park.”
To toy or trifle; to act with levity or thoughtlessness; to be careless.
“Don't play with your food!”
To perform in (a sport); to participate in (a game).
“Who's playing now?”
nounActivity for amusement only, especially among the young.
“Children learn through play.”
Similar activity in young animals, as they explore their environment and learn new skills.
“This kind of play helps the young lion cubs develop their hunting skills.”
The conduct, or course, of a game.
“Play was very slow in the first half.”
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Pronunciations and meanings from Wiktionary via kaikki.org, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Recordings by Wikimedia Commons contributors. This page is shared under the same license.