Playing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is participating in a sport or a recreational activity, often involving physical or mental effort in a joyful manner.

• The kids are playing soccer in the park.
• He enjoys playing the piano in his free time.

Used to talk about someone's involvement or participation in a particular task or event. It often implies a level of commitment and interaction.

• Her engagement in community service is truly admirable.
• The student's engagement with the material improved his grades.

Refers to a broad range of actions or tasks that can be recreational, educational, or work-related. It is a general term that can be used in many situations.

• Reading is a relaxing activity.
• The school's favorite activity is the science fair.

Refers to a structured form of play with rules, often for entertainment, competition, or education. It usually involves multiple participants.

• They are playing a board game to pass the time.
• Chess is a strategic game that requires critical thinking.

This word is used when someone is engaging in an activity for enjoyment or recreation, often related to music or sports.

• She enjoys playing the piano every evening.
• The children were playing in the park.

This word is suitable when referring to the act of presenting a form of entertainment, such as a play, concert, or other staged activity.

• The band's performance was electrifying.
• Her performance in the play won her several awards.

Use this term when referring to a performance, typically by a soloist, that often involves music or poetry. It is usually a formal context.

• She has a piano recital this weekend.
• The poetry recital was well-attended.

This term is often used formally to describe the act of carrying out a plan, order, or course of action, typically implying efficiency and precision. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to the carrying out of a death sentence.

• The execution of the project required careful planning.
• The execution of the prisoner was carried out at dawn.

Use this word when talking about engaging in an activity or game for fun, often done by children, but also by adults in various forms like sports or video games.

• The children were outside playing with their new toys
• She enjoys playing basketball on weekends

Use this word to describe something entertaining or amusing. It is often informal and can apply to a broad range of experiences.

• We had so much fun at the amusement park
• Playing board games can be a lot of fun

This word is used to talk about activities that are done for relaxation and enjoyment during free time, often as a break from work or duties.

• Recreational activities like hiking and swimming are great for relaxation
• The community center offers a variety of recreational programs

This word is ideal when describing something that brings pleasure or happiness, commonly used for events, activities, or experiences.

• The movie was really enjoyable
• We had an enjoyable afternoon at the park