C1verb2K

UK/["/pɔːˈtreɪ/","/pɔːˈtreɪz/","/pɔːˈtreɪd/","/pɔːˈtreɪɪŋ/"]/US/["/pɔːrˈtreɪ/","/pɔːrˈtreɪz/","/pɔːrˈtreɪd/","/pɔːrˈtreɪɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Portray

to show somebody/something in a picture; to describe somebody/something in a piece of writing

In simple words: to show or describe someone or something in a particular way.

Portray in a sentence

  • The painting portrays the duke’s third wife.
  • He was one of the first to portray animals from the New World.
  • His war poetry vividly portrays life in the trenches.
  • Throughout the trial, he portrayed himself as the victim.
  • Her father will be portrayed by Jim Broadbent.

How to use Portray

Used in both written and spoken contexts. Often seen in art, literature, and media discussions. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing art or character descriptions.

Grammar pattern

portray + object

Memory hint

Think of 'portrait' — a portrait portrays a person visually.

Related words

Collocations with Portray

Synonyms for Portray

Opposites of Portray

Common mistakes with Portray

  • Confused with 'depict' — they are similar but can have different contexts.
  • Using it incorrectly with non-living subjects — often used for people or characters.

Compare Portray with Represent, Play

Portray appears in

Portray in other languages

More words like Portray

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Frequently asked questions about Portray

What does Portray mean?

to show or describe someone or something in a particular way.

What is the definition of Portray?

to show somebody/something in a picture; to describe somebody/something in a piece of writing

How do you use Portray in a sentence?

The painting portrays the duke’s third wife.

Can you give another example of Portray?

He was one of the first to portray animals from the New World.

What are synonyms for Portray?

Common alternatives include represent, play.

What is the opposite of Portray?

Opposite meanings include ignore, omit, misrepresent.

What words go with Portray?

It commonly pairs with accurately, clearly, graphically, attempt to, try to, as, accurately, clearly, graphically, attempt to, try to, as.

What are common mistakes when using Portray?

Confused with 'depict' — they are similar but can have different contexts. Using it incorrectly with non-living subjects — often used for people or characters.

How do you pronounce Portray?

US: /["/pɔːrˈtreɪ/","/pɔːrˈtreɪz/","/pɔːrˈtreɪd/","/pɔːrˈtreɪɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/pɔːˈtreɪ/","/pɔːˈtreɪz/","/pɔːˈtreɪd/","/pɔːˈtreɪɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Portray?

Used in both written and spoken contexts. Often seen in art, literature, and media discussions. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing art or character descriptions.

What CEFR level is Portray?

"Portray" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.