导演

• Pinyin: dǎo yǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 导 (guide/lead) + 演 (perform/act)

Meaning

Director; to direct (a film, play, or show). Refers to the person who leads the creative process of a production.

As a noun, refers to a film, television, or stage director. As a verb, means to direct or helm a production. One of the most recognisable roles in the entertainment industry.

Examples

1. 这部电影的导演是一位年轻人。 The director of this film is a young person.
2. 他导演了很多有名的电视剧。 He has directed many famous TV dramas.
3. 导演对演员的表演要求很高。 The director has very high expectations for the actors' performances.

Usage Guide

Context: entertainment, film, theatre

Tone: professional

Do Say

• 你知道这部电影的导演是谁吗？(Do you know who directed this film?)
• 张艺谋是中国著名的导演。(Zhang Yimou is a famous Chinese director.)

Don't Say

• 他导演了我们的会议 (Don't use 导演 for non-performance events like meetings — use 主持 for hosting or leading meetings)

Origin & History

Compound of 导 (guide, lead) and 演 (perform, act), literally 'guide-perform.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal