演じる

• Reading: えんじる
• Romaji: enjiru
• Kanji breakdown: 演 (en) — perform, act, play
• Pronunciation: /eɴ.dʑi.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To act; to play a role; to perform. Used for theatrical performances and figuratively for pretending.

A Group 2 (ichidan) transitive verb meaning to perform a role on stage, in film, or in life. Takes を to mark the role being played. Also used figuratively when someone puts on an act or plays a social role. The noun form 演技 (acting, performance) is related. Essential vocabulary for discussing entertainment and social behaviour.

Examples

1. 彼女はその映画で主役を見事に演じた。 She gave a magnificent performance as the lead in that film.
2. 会議ではリーダーの役割を演じなければならない。 I have to play the role of leader in meetings.
3. 悪役を演じるのは意外と難しいらしい。 Apparently it's surprisingly difficult to play a villain.

Usage Guide

Context: entertainment, theatre, social roles

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

The kanji 演 combines 氵 (water, flow) and 寅 (to extend), meaning 'to flow forth' or 'to display.' Combined with じる (a verb suffix from する), it became the standard word for performing or acting.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal