verb
to play
A1
“spielen” means to play (games, sports) and to play an instrument. Regular weak verb; auxiliary haben in perfect (hat gespielt). Not reflexive or separable. Participles: gespielt, present participle spielend. Broad use in recreation and performance contexts; conjugates regularly (ich spiele, er spielte, wir haben gespielt).
Examples
Die Nachbarn berichteten, dass die Kinder im Hof spielten, obwohl es schon spät war.
The neighbors reported that the children were playing in the yard, although it was already late.
Ich spiele Fußball.
I play soccer.
Er spielte Klavier.
He played the piano.
Details
Mnemonics
Imagine children playing in a park when you hear 'spielen'
sounds like English 'spiel' (as in 'spiel' = game)
not applicable for verbs
Notes
A regular weak verb meaning 'to play'. Often used with instruments, games, or sports.