主演

しゅえん

starring, playing the leading part

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"主演" specifically refers to the actor or actress who plays the leading role in a film, TV show, or stage play. It highlights the primary performer around whom the story revolves.

Common Contexts

You will often see "主演" used in entertainment news, movie posters, and reviews to indicate the main star(s). It is a formal term used in professional contexts.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 主演演员 (leading actor/actress): emphasizes the person playing the main role.
  • ...主演 (starred by...): used to introduce who plays the lead role.
  • 主演阵容 (main cast): refers to the group of leading actors in a production.

Usage Tips

"主演" is not used for minor or supporting roles; those are called "配角". Avoid confusing "主演" with "导演" (director). When talking about the main role, "主演" is the precise term.

Common Confusion

Sometimes learners confuse "主演" with "主演" or "主演角色". "主演" is usually a noun referring to the actor, while "主演角色" refers to the leading role character itself.

Example Sentences

This movie is starred by a famous actor, and the box office was very good.

She played the female lead in the play and performed excellently.

The main cast of this TV drama is very strong, attracting many viewers.