noun
Very common
playing
PLAY-ihng
Playing (noun) means a single performance or showing of something, such as a song or film. Example: “The cinema offered a late playing of the film for night owls.”
noun
1
A single performance or showing of something, such as a song or film.
"The cinema offered a late playing of the film for night owls."
"Each playing of the new single drew more listeners to the station."
"This is the third playing of that song on the radio today."
How to use playing
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA single instance of something being played, shown, or performed.
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Word forms
- Plural
- playings
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The cinema offered a late _____ of the film for night owls.
Etymology
From play + -ing.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for playing
See all rhymes for playing →Frequently asked questions
What does “playing” mean?
The word “playing” means a single performance or showing of something, such as a song or film. In plain terms, a single instance of something being played, shown, or performed.
How do you pronounce “playing”?
“Playing” is pronounced PLAY-ihng (/ˈpleɪ.ɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “playing” in a sentence?
Here is “playing” used in a sentence: “This is the third playing of that song on the radio today.”
What part of speech is “playing”?
“Playing” is a noun.
Is “playing” a common word?
“Playing” is a very common word in modern English.
What is an example of 'playing' used as a noun?
You might say 'the first playing of the song on the radio' or 'a special playing of the film for critics.' Here 'playing' names a single instance of something being played or shown. It often appears with words like 'first,' 'final,' or 'repeat' to mark which showing is meant.
What is the difference between a playing and a performance?
A 'playing' is a single instance of a recording, song, or film being played or shown to an audience. A 'performance' more often means a live act by musicians or actors. So a concert is a performance, while a broadcast of that concert on the radio would be a playing of it.
Is 'playing' common as a noun?
It is fairly uncommon in this sense. Everyday English more often uses 'showing,' 'screening,' or 'airing' for films and broadcasts, and 'play' for how often a song is heard. 'Playing' as a countable noun meaning one showing sounds a little formal, but it is correct and clearly understood.
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