"Jugar" vs. "Tocar" in Spanish

Quick Answer

In Spanish, there are two verbs commonly used to say to play: jugarand tocar.

Let's learn the difference between these easily confused verbs!

Jugar

Jugar is used when talking about playing a game or a sport.

For example:

examples
A mi abuelo le encanta jugar al ajedrez. My grandpa loves playing chess.
Los niños están jugando al fútbol. The kids are playing soccer.

Tocar is used when talking about playing an instrument or performing music.

For example:

examples
Sé tocar la guitarra. I know how to play the guitar.
La banda estaba tocando toda la noche. The band was playing all night long.

Ready to learn more about other tricky words in Spanish? Check out these articles!

SpanishDictionary.com is the world's most popular Spanish-English dictionary, translation, and learning website.

FEATURES

ABOUT

SOCIAL NETWORKS

APPS

Making educational experiences better for everyone.

English dictionary and learning for Spanish speakers

French-English dictionary, translator, and learning

Immersive learning for 25 languages

Comprehensive resource for word definitions and usage

Essential reference for synonyms and antonyms

Adaptive learning for English vocabulary

Fast, easy, reliable language certification

Fun educational games for kids

Trusted tutors for 300+ subjects

Comprehensive K-12 personalized learning

Marketplace for millions of educator-created resources

35,000+ worksheets, games, and lesson plans