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Actors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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actors

[ˈæktərz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in entertainment industry

Actors are performers who portray characters in movies, television shows, or on stage. They use their skills to bring a script to life and evoke emotions from the audience.

Synonyms

dramatists, performers, thespians.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
actors

This is the most general term and can be used in any context where someone performs in movies, television, theater, or any other medium that involves acting.

  • The actors did a phenomenal job in the new movie.
  • She wants to be one of the best actors of her generation.
performers

This term can refer to anyone who performs, not just in acting. It could include musicians, dancers, magicians, and more. It’s broader than 'actors' and encompasses various types of performances.

  • The street performers attracted a large crowd with their acrobatics.
  • She is a versatile performer, skilled in both singing and acting.
thespians

This is a somewhat formal or archaic term for actors, often used in the context of theater. It might be used in a more literary or historical discussion.

  • The thespians delivered an outstanding performance of the classic play.
  • He has been a dedicated thespian since his high school theater days.
dramatists

This term is usually used to describe actors who are specifically involved in dramatic performances, such as plays. It can also refer to playwrights, the authors of dramatic works.

  • The dramatists on the stage conveyed deep emotions with their performance.
  • Famous dramatists like Shakespeare have left a lasting legacy.

Examples of usage

  • The actors delivered powerful performances in the movie.
  • She is a talented actor who can play a variety of roles.
Context #2 | Noun

in social interactions

Actors are people who pretend to be someone they are not in order to deceive others or achieve a specific goal.

Synonyms

deceivers, manipulators, pretenders.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
actors

Used to describe people who perform in movies, TV shows, or theater plays.

  • The actors in the new movie did an amazing job
  • Shakespearean actors often have to memorize long monologues
pretenders

Used to describe people who act as though they are something they are not. This term has a negative connotation.

  • She realized her friend was just a pretender
  • The pretenders were quickly exposed during the investigation
deceivers

Used to describe people who deliberately lead others to believe something that is not true. This word carries a negative connotation.

  • Deceivers often gain trust before revealing their true intentions
  • Don't fall for the tricks of deceivers
manipulators

Used to describe individuals who control or influence others in a clever and often unfair or unethical way. This term also has a negative connotation.

  • Manipulators often play on their victims' emotions
  • Be cautious with manipulators in the workplace

Examples of usage

  • He was caught lying and being an actor in the situation.
  • She is skilled at being an actor and manipulating people's perceptions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'actor' comes from the Latin 'actor', meaning 'doer' or 'one who acts'.
  • The ancient Greeks were among the first to establish formal theater, with actors performing in festivals honoring the god Dionysus.
  • In medieval Europe, traveling theater troupes helped popularize acting as a profession across different regions.

Pop Culture

  • The Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, honor the best performances in film, showcasing the talent of actors from around the world.
  • Television series have become a vital platform for actors, with shows like 'Friends' and 'Game of Thrones' creating iconic performances.
  • Musical theater has seen actors cross over into singing, resulting in popular productions like 'Hamilton', blending music and acting.

Science

  • Research shows that acting can improve empathy, as performers often connect deeply with their characters' emotions.
  • Studies suggest that watching actors portray various emotions can help audiences learn to recognize and process their feelings better.
  • Acting techniques like method acting involve tapping into personal experiences to create authentic performances.

Literature

  • Many playwrights, including Shakespeare, wrote roles that challenged the skills and versatility of actors, making theater rich in diversity.
  • Novels and stories often depict actors in their journey, exploring themes of identity, fame, and the struggles behind the spotlight.
  • The concept of the 'tragic hero' in literature often finds its way into acting, where performers must master complex emotional narratives.

Psychology

  • Engaging in performance arts has therapeutic benefits, allowing actors to explore various aspects of their own personalities.
  • Role-playing in acting helps develop social skills, showing the impact of performance on everyday interactions.
  • Actors frequently experience the phenomenon of 'impostor syndrome', feeling unworthy of their success despite talent and recognition.

Origin of 'actors'

The word 'actors' originated from the Latin word 'actor' which means 'doer' or 'performer'. In ancient times, actors were highly respected for their ability to entertain and engage audiences. Over the centuries, the role of actors has evolved to encompass a wide range of performances in various forms of media.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,218, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.