演技

えんぎ

acting, performance

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"演技" (えんぎ) primarily refers to the art or skill of acting or performing, especially in theater, film, or television. It focuses on how an actor expresses emotions and portrays a character.

Common Contexts

You will often hear "演技" when discussing an actor's skill or a particular performance scene. It can describe both the overall acting ability and specific moments, such as a crying scene or a dramatic monologue.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 演技が上手(えんぎがじょうず): good acting skill
  • 演技力(えんぎりょく): acting ability or skill
  • 演技をする(えんぎをする): to act or perform

These phrases are common in conversations about movies, plays, or TV dramas.

Register and Nuance

"演技" is a neutral term used in both casual and formal contexts. It is not slang and is appropriate for reviews, critiques, and everyday discussions about acting.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "演技" with "演出" (えんしゅつ), which means directing or production. Remember, "演技" is about the actor's performance, while "演出" refers to the director's work.

Example Sentences

かれのえんぎはとてもしぜんでかんどうてきだった。

His acting was very natural and moving.

えんぎりょくをあげるためにまいにちれんしゅうしている。

I practice every day to improve my acting skills.

かのじょのなくえんぎはほんとうにじょうずだ。

Her crying performance is really good.