Sometimes, there’s more than one word for a single word in English. The three words tocar, brincar, and jogar are a perfect example, since they all translate as “to play” in English.

tocar = to play (instrument) or to ring

brincar = to play (children)

jogar = to play (game/sport)

Let’s take a look at some examples.

Quero aprender tocar o violão. I want to learn how to play the guitar.

Ele toca  piano todos os dias. He plays the piano every day.

Seu celular está tocando. Your cell phone is ringing.

As crianças estão brincando no quintal. The children are playing in the backyard.

A menina não gosta de brincar sozinha. The girl doesn’t like to play by herself.

Eles jogam Xbox ou Nintendo depois das aulas. They play Xbox or Nintendo after school.

Você gosta de jogar futebol? Do you like to play soccer?

And for extra credit. When you use the term “jogar muito,” it means someone plays very well.

Ele joga muito. He’s a really good player.