脚色

きゃくしょく

dramatization (e.g., film

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

「脚色」(きゃくしょく) refers to the act of adapting or dramatizing a story, often for films, plays, or novels. It involves modifying the original material to enhance dramatic effect or fit a different medium.

Common Contexts

This word is frequently used in discussions about movies, theater, and literature where the original story is changed or embellished. It can have a neutral or slightly negative nuance depending on whether the changes are seen as creative or excessive.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 脚色する: to dramatize or adapt a story
  • 脚色家: a dramatist or adapter
  • 脚色が過剰: excessive dramatization

Register and Nuance

「脚色」is a formal term often used in literary or critical contexts rather than casual conversation. It implies a conscious creative process rather than accidental changes.

Common Learner Pitfall

Learners sometimes confuse 脚色 with simple "translation" or "summary." Remember, 脚色 specifically means adapting or dramatizing, often adding or changing elements for effect, not just retelling.

Example Sentences

このえいがはじっさいのじけんをきゃくしょくしてつくられた。

This movie was made by dramatizing a real incident.

きゃくしょくがかじょうだと、ものがたりのしんぴょうせいがうしなわれることがある。

If the dramatization is excessive, the story’s credibility can be lost.

きゃくしょくかとしてゆうめいなかれは、げんさくにちゅうじつながらもどくじのあじつけをくわえる。

Famous as a dramatist, he adds his own flavor while staying faithful to the original work.