Translation guide
The English word "role" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common equivalent is 役割 (yakuwari) for a function or part played by someone or something. For an acting role, 役 (yaku) is standard. Other meanings include social role, duty, and responsibility, each with specific Japanese expressions.
The function, purpose, or part that someone or something has in a particular situation, group, or activity.
The most common and versatile word for "role" as a function or part played. Used in work, social, and abstract contexts.
His role is to bring the team together.
What is my role in this department?
Similar to 役割 but often implies a duty or task assigned to someone, with a nuance of responsibility.
Fulfill one's role as a parent.
A shorter, more casual version of 役割, often used in compounds or when the context is clear.
What's my role?
The character played by an actor in a performance.
The standard word for a role in acting. Often used with verbs like 演じる (to play a role).
He played the leading role.
The actress took on a challenging role.
Refers to casting or the assignment of roles. Not used for the role itself in everyday speech.
The position or expected behavior associated with a social status, such as gender, family, or job.
A task or function that one is expected or required to do as part of a job or obligation.
役割 (yakuwari) is the most general and neutral term for a role or function. 役目 (yakume) implies a sense of duty or assigned task. 役 (yaku) is shorter and often used in compounds or acting contexts. In casual speech, 役 can replace 役割 when the meaning is clear.
In some cases, English uses 'role' where Japanese would use a different structure. For example, 'play a role in...' can be translated as ～に役割を果たす, but often a simpler verb like 関わる (to be involved) or 貢献する (to contribute) is more natural.
配役が発表された。
The casting was announced.
Understand his role/position.
He was entrusted with an important role/mission.