Miscast Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ญ
miscast
[หmษชsหkรฆst ]
Definition
casting error
To miscast means to assign someone to a role or job for which they are not suited or to make a mistake in assigning a part in a play or film. This term is often used in the context of theatre or film productions when an actor is not the right fit for a character.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The director miscast the leading role, leading to poor reviews.
- Critics said the film was miscast and lacked chemistry between the leads.
- I think they miscast the villain; he seems too nice for the role.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Theater and Film
- In casting for a play or movie, a miscast can lead to poor performances and misunderstandings of characters.
- Some actors become famous for playing roles that were initially considered miscast, changing public perception over time.
Psychology
- Miscasting can reflect societal biases, where people are chosen for roles based on stereotypes rather than individual fit.
- The feeling of being miscast in a job can lead to job dissatisfaction and lower motivation.
Pop Culture
- In modern entertainment, fans often debate who was miscast in films, leading to discussions about casting decisions on social media.
- Recent trends show that diverse casting can prevent miscasting by considering a wider pool of talent.
Literature
- Many literary characters can be seen as miscast in their roles due to conflicting motivations or backgrounds.
- Classic novels often explore themes of identity and roles, demonstrating how characters might feel miscast in their societal positions.
Origin of 'miscast'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'mis-' meaning wrong or badly, and 'cast,' which refers to selecting or throwing something.
- First recorded usage of 'miscast' dates back to the late 19th century in theatrical contexts.
The word 'miscast' is a compound of 'mis-' meaning wrong or badly, and 'cast', which originates from the Old Norse word 'kasta' meaning to throw. The term 'cast' in the context of assigning roles is believed to date back to the early 15th century. As the performing arts evolved, the need to accurately assign roles became paramount for theatrical success. The prefix 'mis-' was added to indicate an incorrect casting choice, which began to appear prominently in the 20th century with the rise of cinema and theatrical performances as major forms of entertainment. The evolution of the term reflects the ongoing relationship between audience reception and actor suitability in dramatic arts.