What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plays
Example
The local theater group is putting on a play this weekend. [play: noun]
Example
She has been cast in the lead role of the play. [play: noun]
perform
Example
The orchestra will perform a concert next week. [perform: verb]
Example
He performed a magic trick for the children's birthday party. [performed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perform is more commonly used than plays in everyday language since it covers a wider range of contexts. Plays are more specific to theater and may not be used as frequently in everyday conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plays and perform?
While plays are generally considered more formal, perform can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile in terms of formality.
