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Playing - Mastering The 3 Verbs

In Portuguese, the verb to play can be translated in different ways depending on the context. This can be confusing for learners, but don't worry! Here's a simple guide to help you:

'Jogar' is used when playing sports or games, such as football or cards. It involves competition or specific rules.

- 🎾 Eles vão jogar ténis amanhã. (They're playing tennis tomorrow.)

'Brincar' is used when referring to playful activities, especially those involving children, where there are no formal rules.

- 👧 As crianças estão a brincar no jardim. (The children are playing in the garden.)

'Tocar' is the verb used when playing a musical instrument.

- 🎹 Ela sabe tocar piano muito bem. (She can play the piano very well.)

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Jogar for sport, brincar for children at play, tocar for an instrument. Portuguese has three verbs for to play, and this makes you choose.

  • An interactive exercise

Written for level A2. Every lesson has its own, anywhere from A1 to B2.

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