How to Say “Play” in Japanese – Useful Phrases and Examples

In Japanese, the concept of “play” can be expressed in several ways depending on the context. Whether you’re talking about playing sports, playing games, or spending time with friends, each has a unique expression. This guide will introduce you to the basics of saying “play” in Japanese, including essential phrases and examples to help you sound natural!

Play a Game in Japanese

When referring to playing games like video games or board games, Japanese often uses the phrase ゲームをします (gēmu o shimasu).

Example:

• 友達とゲームをします。（ともだちとゲームをします。）
  Tomodachi to gēmu o shimasu.
  “I play a game with my friends.”

Play a Sport in Japanese

For physical activities like playing sports, スポーツをします (supōtsu o shimasu) is commonly used.

Example:

• 毎週、サッカーをします。（まいしゅう、サッカーをします。）
  Maishū, sakkā o shimasu.
  “I play soccer every week.”

Play a Musical Instrument in Japanese

When talking about playing musical instruments, the verb ひきます (hikimasu) is used. This verb is specific to instruments like the guitar, piano, and violin.

Example:

• 毎日ギターを弾きます。（まいにちギターをひきます。）
  Mainichi gitā o hikimasu.
  “I play the guitar every day.”

Play With (Someone) in Japanese

For playing or spending time with people, animals, or toys, the phrase 〜とあそびます (〜to asobu) is commonly used. あそびます (asobimasu) itself means “to play” in a general sense.

Example:

• 犬と遊びます。（いぬとあそびます。）
  Inu to asobimasu.
  “I play with my dog.”
• 友達と遊びます。（ともだち と あそびます。）
  Tomodachi to asobimasu
  “I hang out with my friend.”