Leading role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Leading role" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the primary or most important part played by an actor in a film, play, or other performance, or to describe a significant position in any context. Example: "In the upcoming film, she has been cast in the leading role, which is a significant opportunity for her career."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Theater

Politics

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

You play the leading role.

The New Yorker

Indeed, she explicitly rejected a leading role.

The New York Times

He was offered a leading role.

Independent

A juicy leading role for an actress.

The New York Times

Her daughter had a leading role.

The New York Times

Actor in a leading role?

The New York Times

Enough Said features Gandolfini's last leading role.

The Guardian - Film

But she never had a leading role.

The Guardian - Film

"Probably for a leading role, yeah.

The Guardian

He quickly took a leading role.

The New York Times

Mr. Vaughan acts the leading role.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: While "Leading role" often refers to acting, it can also describe someone who has a primary influence in politics, business, or science.

Common error

Avoid limiting "Leading role" solely to performance contexts; it can apply to anyone significantly influencing a situation, like "Baker plays a leading role in keeping that grip tight."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Leading role" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often referring to the most important or prominent character in a play, film, or other performance. It is also used more broadly to describe a person or entity that has a primary influence or responsibility in a particular context, such as in politics or business. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a well-established and widely accepted usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Film

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Leading role" is a versatile and widely used term, primarily functioning as a noun phrase to denote the most significant character or entity in a given scenario. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and frequently employed across diverse contexts, including news, film, science, and business. The phrase's communicative purpose is to emphasize importance and influence, making it suitable for both formal and informal writing. While the term commonly refers to acting, it can also describe someone with a primary influence in politics, business, or science. To enhance writing, consider using synonyms like "principal part" or "central figure" for variety, and avoid limiting its application solely to performance contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Central role

Emphasizes the core function or importance of a role within a larger system or event.

Principal part

Focuses on the importance of the role in terms of responsibility and influence.

Starring role

Emphasizes the celebrity and prominence associated with the role.

Main character

Highlights the central figure in a narrative.

Central figure

Stresses the role's importance in driving the plot or action.

Key participant

Suggests active involvement and influence in an event or project.

Headlining act

Refers to the top-billed performer in a show or event.

Chief player

Highlights a major contributor or influencer in a specific field.

Foremost figure

Focuses on leadership and being at the forefront of a movement or organization.

Primary function

Underscores the main purpose or duty associated with the role.

FAQs

How is a "Leading role" different from a supporting role?

A "Leading role" is the primary character or figure in a narrative or situation, while a supporting role assists and complements the main character. The "leading role" typically drives the plot and has the most significant impact on the outcome.

What are other ways to say "Leading role"?

Alternatives to "Leading role" include "principal part", "starring role", or "central figure", depending on the specific context.

In what contexts can I use the phrase "Leading role"?

The phrase "Leading role" can be used in various contexts, including film, theater, politics, business, and science. It typically describes someone who has a primary influence or is central to a particular situation.

Is it appropriate to use "Leading role" in formal writing?

Yes, "Leading role" is appropriate in formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe someone who has a significant position or influence.