Meaning and Usage
"演じる" primarily means "to perform" or "to act" in a theatrical or cinematic context, such as playing a role in a play or movie. It can also be used metaphorically to describe pretending or playing a part in social situations, like "pretending to be someone else."
Common Collocations
- 主役を演じる (しゅやくをえんじる): to play the lead role
- 役を演じる (やくをえんじる): to play a role
- ふりを演じる (ふりをえんじる): to pretend or feign
Register and Nuance
This verb is formal and often used in written or formal spoken Japanese, especially in contexts related to acting or performance arts. When used metaphorically, it can imply deliberate pretense or acting out a role in social interactions.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "演じる" with "する" or "やる" when talking about performing actions. Remember, "演じる" specifically refers to performing a role or acting, not just doing something.
Tips
Use "演じる" when emphasizing the aspect of playing a character or role, whether on stage, in film, or in social behavior. For simple actions, other verbs are more appropriate.