What does it mean to play a card?

Playing a card in Magic: The Gathering specifically refers to the actions of casting a spell or playing a land. When a player casts a spell, they are following a defined sequence of steps, which includes announcing the spell, paying its mana cost, and resolving it. This is what is commonly referred to as “playing a card” in the context of spells.

On the other hand, when a player plays a land, they are placing it onto the battlefield from their hand, typically as part of their main phase. This action is equally considered “playing a card” but applies specifically to lands.

Options that involve activating abilities, discarding, or placing a card in the graveyard do not fit the specific definition of "playing a card" as outlined in the rules. Activating abilities is a separate action and does not involve bringing a card from your hand onto the battlefield in the same manner as casting or playing a land. Similarly, discarding and sending cards to the graveyard are not classified as playing a card, since they do not involve utilizing the card in its intended function as a spell or land from your hand.