This is the 774th most frequent Finnish word.
pelaa
"To play" (games or sports).
Here 'pelaa' is used in its primary meaning, 'to play', referring to participating in a sports activity.
Hän pelaa jalkapalloa joka viikonloppu.
He plays soccer every weekend.
In this context, 'pelaa' is used metaphorically, meaning 'to fulfill' or 'to have' a significant contribution or position.
Hän pelaa tärkeää roolia tässä projektissa.
He plays an important role in this project.
Here 'pelaa' is used idiomatically, connected to the phrase 'pelaamalla korttinsa oikein', which means to strategize or act wisely.