play this role

USAGE SUMMARY

"play this role" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when asking someone to act out a specific character or behave in a certain way. Example: "Can you please play the role of the prince in our school play?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

No other country can play this role.

The New York Times

But do they actually play this role?

MIT Technology Review

"I was born to play this role," she added, laughing.

The New York Times

At its best, it can still play this role.

The Guardian

"He'll probably play this role for many years to come".

The New York Times

"I was made to play this role," she said.

The New York Times

Ted Cruz is particularly ill-equipped to play this role.

The Washington Post

I think he's mature enough to play this role.

Independent

Alumni could continue to play this role, but on a more active basis.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

To continue to optimally play this role requires a sustained commitment to balanced and equitable governance".

The Guardian

There are a large number of Nigerian ministerial institutes that are ready to play this role.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "play this role", ensure the context clearly defines what the role entails. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming the audience knows the full implications of the "role". Briefly define the expected actions or responsibilities to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "play this role" typically functions as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage. It's used to describe the act of performing or embodying a particular function, task, or character within a specific context. The phrase implies action and participation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

27%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "play this role" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of undertaking a specific function or responsibility. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Its meaning is generally to fulfill a function within a certain context, as demonstrated in various examples spanning from news articles to scientific publications. It has a generally neutral tone, making it appropriate for a variety of contexts. Related phrases include "assume this role", "take on this role" and "fulfill this role", each with a slightly different emphasis. When using this phrase, be sure to provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity. The phrase is highly frequent in sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Assume this role

Emphasizes taking on the responsibilities and duties associated with the position.

Take on this role

Highlights the act of accepting and embracing the responsibilities of the role.

Fulfill this role

Focuses on meeting the expectations and requirements of the role.

Act in this capacity

Refers to performing the functions and duties associated with a specific position or function.

Serve in this role

Highlights the act of providing service or contributing in a particular position.

Embody this role

Suggests fully representing and personifying the qualities and characteristics of the role.

Execute this role

Focuses on carrying out the responsibilities and tasks associated with the role effectively.

Function in this capacity

Refers to operating and performing tasks within a specific role or function.

Portray this role

Suggests representing the role in a performance or depiction.

Handle this role

Implies managing and dealing with the responsibilities and challenges associated with the role.

FAQs

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

You can use "play this role" to describe someone undertaking a specific function or responsibility, such as "The United States can "play this role" in mediating the conflict."

What are some alternatives to "play this role"?

Alternatives include "assume this role", "take on this role", or "fulfill this role", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "play this role" or "fulfill this role"?

Both "play this role" and "fulfill this role" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Play this role" suggests acting or performing a part, while "fulfill this role" implies meeting the requirements and expectations of the position.

What does it mean when someone says they were "born to play this role"?

Saying someone was "born to play this role" indicates that they are exceptionally well-suited for it, possessing the necessary skills, qualities, and experience to excel in that position or capacity.