代役(だいやく)

Composed of 代(だい) (substitute, in place of) + 役(やく) (role). Originally from the world of theater and performing arts, now widely used in business and everyday contexts.

Common collocations

• 代役(だいやく)を務(つと)める: to serve as a stand-in
• 代役(だいやく)を果(は)たす: to fulfill the role of a substitute
• 代役(だいやく)を立(た)てる: to put up a substitute
• 代役(だいやく)として: as a substitute

Similar words

• 代理(だいり): proxy, representative — more formal; used for official delegation of authority
• 代打(だいだ): pinch hitter — specifically a baseball term for a substitute batter
• 控(ひか)え: reserve, backup — a person on standby; less specific about actually performing the role
• 身代(みが)わり: body double, scapegoat — taking someone's place, often to protect them or take blame

Usage

While originally a performing arts term, 代役(だいやく) is now commonly used in business settings. It carries no negative connotation — stepping in as a 代役(だいやく) is seen as responsible and helpful.