Spanish Conversation · Level 1
86 words
Spanish word
jugar
Pronunciation
IPA/xuˈɣaɾ/
Meaning
- verbplay
Example
¿Quieres jugar esta tarde en el parque?
Do you want to play at the park this afternoon?
More examples
Hoy no puedo jugar porque tengo que trabajar.
I can't play today because I have to work.
Core concept
People playing a game together.
Common phrases
jugar al fútbol
play soccer
jugar con amigos
play with friends
jugar a las cartas
play cards
Similar words
divertirse: Experiences pleasure from an activity and has a good time.
entretenerse: Amuses oneself to pass the time and relax.
participar: Joins a gathering or event and takes part in its activities.
practicar: Repeats actions to improve a skill or technique.
Definition in Spanish
Hacer o practicar juegos, pasatiempos y deportes con intención de divertirse.
Word origin
From Latin iocāre, through Old Spanish jogar into modern jugar, the verb kept the sense of taking part in games and pastimes for amusement.
Usage tips
- Spanish commonly uses jugar + a before a named game or sport, with a + el contracting to al, as in jugar al tenis.