A2noun1K

Role

UK /["/rəʊl/"]/US /["/rəʊl/"]/

Definition

an actor’s part in a play, film, etc.

In simple words: A part someone plays in a situation or story.

Examples

  • He took on the role of team leader during the project.
  • In the play, she played the role of the main character.
  • Each person has a different role in the family.
  • Teachers often take the role of a guide for their students.
  • She felt her role was important for the success of the event.

Usage notes

Use 'role' when discussing duties in work or positions in stories. Be cautious not to confuse with 'roll' which is a different word. Appropriate in both formal and informal settings.

Grammar pattern

role + in + something

Memory hint

Think of a theater role – every actor has a part they play.

Collocations

  • lead
  • leading
  • starring
  • assume
  • perform
  • play
  • in the role (of)
  • big
  • huge
  • large
  • have
  • occupy
  • perform
  • model
  • reversal
  • expectation
  • in a/​the role
  • role as
  • role at
  • big
  • huge
  • large
  • have
  • occupy
  • perform
  • model
  • reversal
  • expectation
  • in a/​the role
  • role as
  • role at

Synonyms

  • function
  • position
  • character
  • capacity
  • job

Antonyms

  • unimportance
  • insignificance

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'role' with 'roll', the latter meaning to turn over or to have a cylindrical shape.
  • Using 'role' without a specific context, e.g., 'What is your role?' is better than just 'What is role?'
  • Omitting 'in' when discussing roles in activities, e.g., 'His role in the project.'