1.
villain role, antagonist, bad guy (in a story)
The role of the villain or antagonist in a play, movie, story, or other narrative. Also refers to the actor or person playing such a role. By extension, someone who takes on an unpopular or thankless role in real life.
悪役を演じる。
To play the villain.
あの俳優は悪役がよく似合う。
That actor suits villain roles well.
部下に厳しく注意しなければならず、いつも悪役を引き受けている。
I always have to be the bad guy because I need to scold my subordinates strictly.
USAGE:
悪役 primarily refers to the villain or antagonist role in dramas, movies, anime, and other narratives. It is also used figuratively for someone who takes on an unpopular role in real life, such as being the disciplinarian or delivering bad news.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 悪役を演じる: to play the villain
- 悪役を引き受ける: to take on the bad-guy role
- 悪役俳優: actor known for villain roles
- 悪役レスラー: heel wrestler
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 悪役: villain role (the role or character itself)
- 悪党: villain, scoundrel (an actual bad person)
- 敵役: antagonist role (emphasizes being the opponent)
Related Words
Contrast:
悪党 (actual villain)