to play

JLPT N5 8 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage of (wán)

The verb primarily means "to play" or "to have fun." It is commonly used to describe playing games, toys, or engaging in leisure activities. For example, children (play with building blocks) or friends 游戏 (play games).

Besides literal play, can also imply spending time relaxing or enjoying oneself, as in 时间 (he has no time to relax). It often contrasts with work or study.

is frequently used with objects like 手机 (phone), 游戏 (games), or 笑话 (jokes), showing its flexibility from physical play to playful behavior or joking.

Common collocations:

Notes:

  • is informal and used in everyday speech.
  • It can be used with the particle to indicate a change of state or completion (e.g., - played for a long time).
  • Avoid confusing with (to do) when referring to activities; emphasizes enjoyment or leisure.

Understanding helps learners talk naturally about leisure, hobbies, and social interactions involving fun or play.

Example Sentences

Let's go to the park and have fun together this weekend.

Children like to play with building blocks.

He's been so busy with work lately that he hardly has time to relax.

Stop playing with your phone and do your homework quickly.

He likes to joke around and often makes everyone laugh.