Translation guide
This English phrase means to be involved in something or to contribute to a result. Japanese uses various verbs and expressions depending on whether you mean 'take on a role', 'be a factor', or 'participate'.
Expressing that someone is actively involved in a group activity, event, or project.
The most direct and common way to say 'participate in' or 'take part in'. Used for events, meetings, competitions, etc.
彼は会議に参加した。
He played a part in the meeting.
Many countries are playing a part in the project.
Means 'to be involved in' or 'to have a hand in'. Broader than 参加する; can imply deeper engagement or influence.
彼はその計画に関わっている。
He is playing a part in the plan.
Means 'to join in' or 'to take part in'. Often used when joining an ongoing activity or group.
私たちのチームに加わってください。
Please play a part in our team.
Expressing that something or someone contributed to causing a result, often in a positive or negative way.
Literally 'to buy a role'. Means to actively contribute or play a useful part in achieving something. Often positive.
彼の努力が成功に一役買った。
His efforts played a part in the success.
Formal word for 'to contribute'. Used for significant contributions to a field, project, or society.
彼女は医学の発展に貢献した。
She played a part in the advancement of medicine.
Means 'to exert influence'. Used when someone or something affects an outcome, not necessarily directly participating.
天候が試合の結果に影響を与えた。
The weather played a part in the outcome of the game.
Literally 'to become a factor'. Formal, often used in analytical or technical contexts.
ストレスが病気の要因となることがある。
Stress can play a part in illness.
Expressing that someone acts a character in a performance.
Standard way to say 'play a role/part' in a dramatic performance.
彼はその映画で主役を演じた。
He played a part in that movie.
Means 'to appear (in a show/movie)'. Focuses on the fact of being in the production rather than the specific role.
有名な俳優がそのドラマに出演している。
A famous actor is playing a part in the drama.
Do not translate 'play a part in' literally as 部分を遊ぶ or similar. It is not natural Japanese.
参加する is for joining organized events or groups. 関わる implies a deeper, often ongoing involvement, and can be used for negative involvement (e.g., 犯罪に関わる 'be involved in a crime').