play an active role

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'play an active role' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or some group that is actively involved in some activity or process. For example: The government must play an active role in tackling climate change.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Participation of students as mediators Students play an active role in the implementation of activities.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

Institutions should play an active role too.

Harvard Business Review

I play an active role in the label.

The Guardian - Music

It can play an active role during the reaction.

Catalysis Today

And outside classes, we also play an active role in managing our universities.

The Guardian

The courts have an obligation to play an active role in reviewing these determinations.

The New York Times

I think she'll play an active role in supporting the president's agenda".

The New York Times

MR. SMITH: In substantial issues, like child pornography, yes, the government should play an active role.

The New York Times

For social enterprise to play an active role in Greek society, entrepreneurs need support.

The Guardian

It is meant to play an active role in its surroundings.

The New York Times - Arts

But some people want to play an active role in running their own lives.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "play an active role", clearly define the specific actions or contributions that constitute this role to avoid ambiguity. Be specific about what it entails.

Common error

Avoid using "play an active role" when the involvement is minimal or passive. Ensure the actions genuinely reflect active participation and avoid exaggerating one's importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play an active role" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the performance of a significant part in a particular activity or situation. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its widespread use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

38%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "play an active role" is a common and versatile expression used to describe someone or something that significantly contributes to a process or activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. It's used across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. When using "play an active role", ensure the context reflects genuine participation. Alternatives like "be actively involved" or "take a leading part" can be used for subtle shifts in meaning. Remember to avoid overstating the level of involvement. Overall, "play an active role" is a valuable phrase in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be actively involved

Emphasizes the state of being engaged and participating.

participate fully

Highlights the completeness and extent of participation.

take a leading part

This alternative suggests a more prominent and influential involvement.

contribute significantly

Focuses on the impact and importance of the contribution.

engage proactively

Highlights taking initiative and being forward-thinking in involvement.

exercise a key function

Focuses on the role as an essential component.

make a substantial contribution

Emphasizes the quantity of involvement.

assume a central position

Suggests a core and critical involvement in the activity.

exert influence

Focuses on the power and effect of one's participation.

be a driving force

Suggests being a primary motivator and influencer.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "play an active role" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "exercise a key function", "assume a central position", or "make a substantial contribution" depending on the context.

What verbs commonly collocate with "active role"?

Common verbs used with "active role" include "play", "take", "assume", "have", and "maintain". For instance, you can "take an active role" or "assume an active role".

Is it better to say "play an active role" or "take an active role"?

Both "play an active role" and "take an active role" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice depends on stylistic preference, but they are largely interchangeable.

In what contexts is the phrase "play an active role" most appropriate?

The phrase "play an active role" is suitable in various contexts, including discussions about community involvement, business strategies, political participation, and scientific research. It's appropriate whenever someone or something is significantly contributing to an activity or process.