主役

• Reading: しゅやく
• Romaji: shuyaku
• Kanji breakdown: 主 (shu/nushi) — main, master; 役 (yaku/eki) — role, duty, service
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯ.ja.kɯ/

Meaning

Leading role; protagonist; star of the show. The main character or central figure.

A noun referring to the lead actor or the main role in a play, film, or story. Also used figuratively to describe the central figure in any situation, as in 今日の主役 (today's star, e.g., at a birthday party). Contrasts with 脇役 (supporting role). Common in entertainment, daily conversation, and event contexts.

Examples

1. 彼女はそのドラマで主役を演じて一躍有名になった。 She played the lead role in that drama and instantly became famous.
2. 今日の飲み会の主役は転職する田中さんだ。 The star of today's get-together is Tanaka-san, who's moving on to a new job.
3. 子どもたちが主役の運動会は見ていて楽しい。 It's fun to watch a school field day where the kids are the stars of the show.

Usage Guide

Context: entertainment, events, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 主 (shu, main/primary) and 役 (yaku, role/duty). Literally 'main role' — the most important part in a performance or situation.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal