play the role

USAGE SUMMARY

"play the role" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are talking about someone taking on a particular part or role in a situation, for example: "He was asked to play the role of mediator in the dispute."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't play the role of psychologist though.

Harvard Business Review

Tom Cruise might even play the role.

The Guardian

I know how to play the role.

The Guardian - Sport

He was born to play the role".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"He had to play the role".

The New York Times

Microglia play the role of immune cells in the brain.

Stanford University

Researchers asked participants to play the role of consultants.

University of California, Berkeley

Would Aldrich Ames really play the role of literary critic?

The Washington Post

Power plants play the role of this conversion process.

Energy Procedia

Don't expect him to play the role onstage.

The New York Times - Arts

The actress Kate Beckinsale was born to play the role.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "play the role" when you want to emphasize the active performance or enactment of a specific function, character, or duty. It is particularly effective when discussing adaptability or assuming responsibilities in dynamic situations.

Common error

Be careful not to use "play the role" in contexts where the role is not actively being performed or assumed. For example, avoid saying "He will play the role" if he is simply assigned to it but not yet acting in it. Instead, consider phrases like "He will fulfill the role" once he starts acting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play the role" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the performance or assumption of a specific function, character, or set of responsibilities. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is acceptable and widely used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

28%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "play the role" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies the active performance or assumption of a specific function or character. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely applicable, as shown by the numerous examples from diverse contexts such as News & Media, Science, and Academia. While the phrase is generally neutral, its register can vary based on the specific context. When using "play the role", ensure that the context involves an active performance or assumption of duties, and consider alternatives such as "fulfill the role" or "assume the position" when appropriate. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "play the role" in your writing to convey adaptability, engagement, and active participation in designated functions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fulfill the role

Focuses on the successful execution of a specific function or duty.

occupy the role

Emphasizes the position or status one holds, rather than the actions performed.

replicate the role

Implies imitation or duplication of actions associated with a particular role.

match the role

Highlights the suitability or compatibility of a person with the requirements of a specific role.

play the functionality

Refers to utilizing specific features or capabilities, typically in technical contexts.

adapt the role

Stresses the modifications made to fit a role in new or changing circumstances.

engage the role

Focuses on active participation and involvement in a role.

interpret the role

Emphasizes the unique understanding and performance someone brings to a role, often in creative contexts.

complete the role

Highlights the fulfillment and conclusion of the tasks associated with a role.

implement the role

Focuses on putting a role into effect or ensuring its practical application.

FAQs

How can I use "play the role" in a sentence?

You can use "play the role" to describe someone taking on a particular function or part in a situation, such as "She had to "play the role" of mediator during the negotiations".

What are some alternatives to saying "play the role"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "fulfill the role", "assume the position", or "take on the responsibility".

Is it correct to say "play the role" or should I use a different phrase?

"Play the role" is a correct and commonly used phrase. Its appropriateness depends on the specific context. If you mean to emphasize the active performance of a function, it is suitable. Otherwise, consider alternatives like "occupy the position" or "hold the office".

What's the difference between "play the role" and "act the part"?

While both phrases involve assuming a specific function, "play the role" often refers to a broader set of responsibilities or behaviors, while "act the part" typically implies mimicking or pretending to be someone. For example, a CEO might "play the role" of a leader, whereas an actor "acts the part" of a character.