主演

• Pinyin: zhǔ yǎn
• Hanzi breakdown: 主 = 丶 + 王 (main); 演 = 氵 + 寅 (perform)

Meaning

To star in; lead actor/actress. As a verb, to play the main role; as a noun, the person in the leading role.

Refers to the actor/actress who plays the protagonist, or the act of taking on such a role. Different from 主角 (the character) — 主演 refers to the performer. Often listed prominently in credits and marketing.

Examples

1. 这部电影由著名影星主演。 This film stars a famous movie star.
2. 她是这部剧的女主演。 She is the leading actress in this series.
3. 导演邀请他来主演新片。 The director invited him to star in the new film.

Usage Guide

Context: film, television, theater

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 他首次主演电影就获得了影帝。(He won Best Actor the first time he starred in a film.)
• 男女主演在发布会上亮相。(The male and female leads appeared at the press conference.)

Don't Say

• 我主演了晚会 — use 主持 for hosting; 主演 is for acting roles

Origin & History

主 (main, primary) + 演 (perform, act)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal