tocar (un instrumento)
play (an instrument)
The Spanish verb 'tocar' when used in the context of an instrument, translates to 'play' in English. Thus, 'tocar un instrumento' means 'to play an instrument'. The verb is used to describe the action of producing sound from an instrument. This is similar to how 'play' is used in English in phrases like ‘play the piano’, ‘play the guitar’, etc.
Example sentences using: tocar (un instrumento)
Mi hermana va a tocar la guitarra en el recital.
My sister is going to play the guitar at the recital.
In this sentence, 'tocar' means 'to play'. It is used in the context of playing a musical instrument, in this case, the guitar. Note that in Spanish, we use the definite article 'la' before 'guitarra'.
¿Te gusta tocar el piano?
Do you like to play the piano?
In this question, 'tocar' is used to mean 'to play' - particularly an instrument. The person is asking if the person they are speaking to enjoys playing the piano.
Tengo que practicar para tocar el violín en la orquesta.
I have to practice to play the violin in the orchestra.
Here, 'tocar' is used in the context of playing a musical instrument, specifically the violin. The sentence mentions the need to practice in order to perform in an orchestra.