1.
actor, performer
A person who performs in plays, films, or other dramatic productions.
役者 means actor, with a traditional or theatrical nuance. It especially evokes stage performance and the performing arts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 役者になる: to become an actor
- 歌舞伎役者: kabuki actor
- 大役者: great actor
- 役者魂: actor's spirit, dedication to the craft
CONTRAST WITH 俳優:
俳優 is the general, modern term for actor (film, TV, theater). 役者 has a more traditional feel and is especially common for stage and kabuki actors. 役者 can also imply someone skilled at playing a role in life: あの人はなかなかの役者だ (That person is quite the performer/schemer).
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