The "a" in both of these is the same as the "ey" in "hey". In "plays", the S is said like a Z in English: Playzzzz...It's longer. "Place" is very short (about half the length) and the "ce" is a short S sound.

Maidhc is correct. The a is the same in both words. The only difference is the 'z' sound at the end of 'plays' and the 's' sound at the end of 'place'. So: plays = plaiz place = plais In a good dictionary you will see pronunciation symbols (phonemes) after the word you look up, between these marks: / / There is usually an explanation for these near the front of the dictionary. Anna www.englishharvest.blogspot.com

by context.

i think i have to give answer of this question by speaking! in "plays" there is a "y" so here you have to pronounce it! so its different! i cant write anymore because it demands speaking!