play video games
/pleɪ ˈvɪdioʊ ɡeɪmz/
Meaning
This phrase describes the action of playing electronic games on a console (like PlayStation or Xbox), a computer, or a mobile device. It is a universal, neutral term used by people of all ages to talk about gaming as a hobby.
Examples
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My brother likes to play video games after he finishes his homework.
My brother likes to play video games after he finishes his homework.
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We stayed up late to play video games together online.
We stayed up late to play video games together online.
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How often do you play video games on your phone?
How often do you play video games on your phone?
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He bought a new computer just to play video games.
He bought a new computer just to play video games.
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I used to play video games every day, but now I don't have enough time.
I used to play video games every day, but now I don't have enough time.
Common Mistakes
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✗ He is playing a video game on his television.
✓ He is playing video games on his TV.
We usually use the plural 'video games' when talking about the hobby in general, rather than the singular 'video game' (unless referring to one specific title).
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✗ I did video games with my friends all weekend.
✓ I played video games with my friends all weekend.
The correct verb collocation is always 'play video games', never 'do' or 'make'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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It's not good for kids to ___ for hours without a break.
💡 Use a console or computer for entertainment
Show answer
play video games
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Do you prefer to ___ alone or with friends online?
💡 Engage in digital gaming
Show answer
play video games