a supporting actor

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a supporting actor" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an actor who plays a secondary role in a film, television show, or theatrical production. Example: "In the latest blockbuster, the supporting actor delivered a performance that stole the show."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Television

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Everyone was a supporting actor this year.

The Guardian - Film

He should get a supporting actor nomination.

The Guardian - Film

A supporting actor nominee, Ed Harris, also did not applaud.

The Guardian

(Actually, he's more a supporting actor; Justin Kirk is the star).

The New York Times

Mr. Gough considered himself lucky to have always been a supporting actor.

The New York Times - Arts

It went on to garner several Oscar nominations and a supporting actor trophy for Jim Broadbent.

The New York Times

He won the Clarence Derwent award for a supporting actor in 1985.

The Guardian

Suddenly you find out you're nominated for a supporting actor award.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

On Tuesday he was nominated for a supporting-actor trophy for the "Wall Street" sequel.

The New York Times

Then the trio presented a supporting-actor award to Alexander Skarsgård, who played the abusive husband in "Big Little Lies".

The New Yorker

He won a supporting-actor Emmy for his work in the 2002 HBO film "Hysterical Blindness," playing the romantic interest of a character again played by Ms. Rowlands.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "supporting actor" to clearly distinguish from the "lead actor" when discussing film or theater credits.

Common error

Avoid using "supporting actor" interchangeably with "extra". A supporting actor has a defined role and lines, while an extra typically provides background presence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a supporting actor" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies an individual who plays a secondary role in a performance, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Film

15%

Television

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a supporting actor" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an actor who plays a secondary role in a production. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its correctness and usability. While the phrase is most frequently found in "News & Media", it's versatile enough for various contexts. Alternatives such as "a secondary performer" or "a minor player" can be used for variation. Remember to avoid confusing "supporting actor" with "extra". As Ludwig shows, understanding the nuances of the phrase and its proper usage enhances clarity in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a secondary performer

Replaces "supporting actor" with a synonym that emphasizes the secondary nature of the role.

a supporting cast member

Replaces "actor" with the broader term "cast member", encompassing all performers.

a minor player

Uses "player" instead of "actor", suggesting a less prominent role.

a bit player

Similar to a minor player, emphasizing a small contribution.

a co-star

Indicates a shared level of importance, though not the lead.

a character actor

Highlights the actor's focus on portraying distinct characters, often in supporting roles.

a featured extra

An extra with some prominence and screen time.

an extra

Denotes a background performer with limited or no lines.

a walk-on role

Describes a very brief appearance, typically without dialogue.

a second banana

An idiom for someone in a comedy double act who plays the less important role.

FAQs

How do you use "a supporting actor" in a sentence?

You can use "a supporting actor" to describe someone who plays a secondary role in a film, play, or TV show. For instance, "The film featured a strong performance from "the supporting actor".".

What's the difference between a "supporting actor" and a "lead actor"?

A "supporting actor" plays a secondary role that supports the main narrative, while a "lead actor" plays the primary role and is central to the story.

What can I say instead of "a supporting actor"?

You can use alternatives like "a secondary performer", "a minor player", or "a character actor" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "supporting actor" when referring to a female performer?

While technically correct, it's more common to use "supporting actress" when referring to a female performer in a supporting role to avoid gender ambiguity. The term "supporting actor" is generally used as the umbrella term but it is more inclusive to use "supporting actress" for a female performer.