11 August 2008 - Written by Lyle

When talking about physical activities it can be difficult to choose the correct verb. Here are the general rules, but there are exceptions.

Play – Can be used for most competitive sports and games.

Eg: play hurling, play chess, play golf.

Go – Is usually used for activities that can be done alone.

Eg: go surfing, go skiing, go bird-watching.

Do – Is often used for activities done in groups.

Eg: do aerobics, do yoga, do Tai-Chi.

(Learn, practice and study are also used, especially for activities which require lessons).

Try to complete these sentences using play, go, or do.

1. I’ve _______ snowboarding several times.

2. Many Australians _________ cricket.

3. I like _________ swimming in summer.

4. I _________ fencing for 2 years in high-school.

5. Most kids in Japan ________ judo in school.

6. If the weather is nice, I’ll _______ sailing.

7. How long have you ___________ volley-ball.

8. Jim ________ kayaking in Canada.

9. Have you ever _________ kung-fu?

10. I don’t like _________ gymnastics.