# replay

/ɹiˈpɫeɪ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/replay
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. recorded video

noun · CEFR B1

a recording of something that just happened, often shown again in slow motion during sports.

For teachers: a sequence of recorded video or audio played back after the original event, frequently used for analysis or entertainment.

- The referee watched the slow-motion replay to see if the ball actually crossed the line.
- Television networks often rely on instant replays from multiple camera angles to provide viewers with a comprehensive analysis of controversial officiating decisions.

### 2. a rematch

noun · CEFR B2 · British English

a second game played because the first one ended in a draw.

For teachers: a second match played to determine a winner after a previous encounter resulted in a tie.

- Since the first game was a draw, the teams will meet for a replay next Tuesday.
- The tournament regulations specify that if the final ends in a stalemate after extra time, a replay must be scheduled within forty-eight hours.

### 3. a repetition

noun · CEFR B2

an event that happens in the same way as a previous one.

For teachers: the recurrence or repetition of a previous event or set of circumstances.

- The accident was a tragic replay of a similar crash that happened five years ago.
- Economists fear that the current market volatility might be a replay of the structural failures observed during the previous decade's financial crisis.

### 4. to play again

verb · CEFR B1

to play a video, a piece of music, or a game one more time.

For teachers: to perform, broadcast, or engage in a game or recording for a second or subsequent time.

- Can you replay that last part of the video? I missed what he said.
- The software allows users to replay their entire gaming session, providing an opportunity to identify tactical errors and improve future performance.

## Examples

- The referee watched the replay to see if it was a foul.
- After the striker fell in the penalty area, the slow-motion replay showed that the defender never actually touched him.
- Modern sports broadcasting relies heavily on instant replay technology to provide viewers with multiple angles of a single play, ensuring that no nuance of the performance is missed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
