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played

Definition:

(nou) a dramatic work intended for performance by actors on a stage (nou) a theatrical performance of a drama (nou) a preset plan of action in team sports (nou) a deliberate coordinated movement requiring dexterity and skill (nou) a state in which action is feasible (nou) utilization or exercise (nou) an attempt to get something (nou) activity by children that is guided more by imagination than by fixed rules (nou) the time during which play proceeds (nou) the removal of constraints (nou) a weak and tremulous light (nou) verbal wit or mockery (often at another's expense but not to be taken seriously) (nou) movement or space for movement (nou) gay or light-hearted recreational activity for diversion or amusement (nou) the activity of doing something in an agreed succession (nou) the act of playing for stakes in the hope of winning (including the payment of a price for a chance to win a prize) (nou) the act using a sword (or other weapon) vigorously and skillfully

Phonetic Transcription:

pleɪ

Examples:

The students played card games.

He played the game with his posse.

Learn more about:
played

Related Words:

game

friend

fun

How to perfect your pronunciation of: played

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Break played down into individual sounds such as pleɪ. Practice these parts before you learn to say the whole word.

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Common mistakes of played pronunciation

Misplacing the vowel sound: Some learners pronounce "played" as /plɛd/, using the wrong vowel sound. The correct pronunciation is /pleɪd/ in both US and UK English. Tip: Focus on the "ay" sound, which is a long vowel.
Ignoring the final sound: A common mistake is to drop the final "d" sound, saying "play" instead of "played." This alters the meaning. Tip: Emphasize the "d" at the end; it is crucial for the past tense.
Overemphasizing the "p": Some speakers stress the "p" too much, making it sound harsh, like /pleɪd/. The correct stress is even throughout the word. Tip: Keep the stress balanced; it should flow smoothly.
Confusing with "play": Learners might confuse "played" with "play," pronouncing them the same. "Played" should be pronounced as /pleɪd/, while "play" is /pleɪ/. Tip: Remember that "played" has a distinct past tense ending.
Mispronouncing the diphthong: Some may pronounce "played" with a short "a" sound, resulting in /plæd/. The correct diphthong is /pleɪ/. Tip: Practice saying "play" and then add the "d" to ensure the diphthong is clear.

Frequently asked questions

How do you pronounce "played" in American English?

In American English, "played" is pronounced as /pleɪd/. The vowel sound is a long "a" as in "day," and the final "d" is voiced.

What is the stress pattern for the word "played"?

The word "played" has one syllable and carries primary stress on that syllable: /pleɪd/. There are no secondary stresses since it's a single-syllable word.

Are there any common mistakes when pronouncing "played"?

One common mistake is mispronouncing the vowel sound, making it too short. Remember to use the long "a" sound, as in "play," to ensure clarity in your pronunciation of "played."

Is there a difference in pronunciation of "played" between British and American English?

In both British and American English, "played" is pronounced the same way: /pleɪd/. There are no notable differences in pronunciation for this word between the two dialects.