1.
stage (theater)
A raised platform where performances take place.
俳優が舞台に立った。
The actor stepped onto the stage.
舞台裏で出番を待っている。
I'm waiting backstage for my turn.
舞台裏 = backstage
彼は長年舞台に立ち続けてきたベテランの舞台俳優だ。
He is a veteran stage actor who has been performing on stage for many years.
2.
setting, scene
The location where events take place, including in stories or films.
この小説の舞台は江戸時代だ。
This novel is set in the Edo period.
世界を舞台に活躍する。
To be active on the world stage.
京都を舞台にした映画が話題になっている。
A movie set in Kyoto is generating buzz.
USAGE: 舞台 refers both to physical theater stages and to settings/scenes where action takes place.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 舞台に立つ (to stand on stage, to perform)
- 舞台にする (to set [a story] in)
- 舞台裏 (backstage, behind the scenes)
- 表舞台 (public stage, limelight)
COMPOUNDS:
- 舞台俳優 (stage actor)
- 舞台装置 (stage set)
- 舞台衣装 (stage costume)