"If its in a spell list it's a spell.
Some abilities look like spells at first glance, but aren't because they are not in a spell list (charm ray example).
Some abilities let you cast spells. The abilities aren't spells but the effects are, regardless of whether you cast the spell (Flames of Phoenix and Tranquillity example).
maybe a foot note with that sage advice about potions to explain why a spell is a spell even if it is not cast."
and I think that covers it @Rubiksmoose