Synonyms for

Play

Verb / pleɪ / Another word for play — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to engage in an activity for enjoyment or recreation

Synonyms & similar words

freerein diddle gaming actas bring periodofplay toy roleplay represent bet meet run spiel dramaticplay dally makefor encounter childsplay sport wager work wreak fun frolic romp recreate participate compete perform act operate manipulate toy fiddle tinker

Synonyms by register

Formal

perform execute engage participate

Informal

mess around fool around hang out chill

Literary

frolic disport sport

Antonyms

work labor toil seriousness earnestness industry

Common collocations

  • play a game
  • play a role
  • play music
  • play a part
  • play the piano
  • play cards
  • play sports
  • play outside

Word family

noun play
verb play
adjective playable
adverb playfully

Usage note

The word 'play' can refer to both recreational activities and the performance of a theatrical work. Be mindful of context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. I want to go outside and play.
  2. Let's play a game of tag.
  3. We can play with this toy together.
  4. The band will play a concert tonight.
  5. The cat likes to play with a ball of yarn.

Quotes

  • All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
  • You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.
  • Play is the highest form of research.

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