Portraying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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portraying
[pɔːˈtreɪɪŋ ]
Definitions
in art
Representing or depicting something or someone in a work of art, such as a painting, sculpture, or movie.
Synonyms
depicting, illustrating, representing.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| portraying |
Used when describing how an actor, artist, or writer presents a character or situation in a certain way, often in a performance or portrayal.
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| depicting |
Appropriate for describing the way an artist or writer shows a particular scene, event, or idea, often in detail.
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| representing |
Used when discussing how something stands for or symbolizes something else, often in an abstract or symbolic way.
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| illustrating |
Commonly used when talking about providing visual representations or examples in books, articles, or educational materials.
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Examples of usage
- He did an excellent job portraying the main character in the film.
- The artist is known for portraying emotions through his paintings.
in a role
Acting as or playing the role of a character, typically in a performance such as a play, movie, or TV show.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| portraying |
Used when someone is representing a character or real person in a work of art, such as on stage, in a movie, or in a painting. Often involves bringing out specific traits or aspects of the character.
|
| playing |
Typically used when referring to taking on a role in a performance, but can also mean engaging in a game, sport, or any fun activity. Less formal and broader in application.
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| acting |
Refers to the profession or craft of performing roles in theater, film, television, or other media. It often involves embodying characters and delivering dialogue.
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| performing |
Used when someone is putting on any kind of staged show or demonstration, including singing, dancing, playing an instrument, or other arts. Can also imply the completion of a task or activity.
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Examples of usage
- She is currently portraying a detective in a popular TV series.
- The actor is talented at portraying a wide range of characters.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art
- In visual art, portraying can refer to capturing the likeness of a person in painting or photography.
- Artists often use various styles—such as realism or impressionism—to portray different emotions or states of being.
- Famous portraits, like the Mona Lisa, are celebrated for how they portray the subject’s mysterious expression.
Theater and Film
- Actors portray characters by embodying their behaviors, emotions, and decisions during performances.
- The technique of 'method acting' focuses on deeply embodying a character’s traits to enhance realistic portrayal.
- Biographical films often strive for authentic portrayal, aiming to tell the true story of a person's life.
Psychology
- Portrayal can influence people's perceptions—how we depict ourselves can shape how others view us.
- Social psychologist Edward E. Jones developed the 'correspondent inference theory' which explains how the portrayal of actions leads to assumptions about a person’s character.
- In therapy, individuals may focus on positive self-portrayal to improve self-esteem or resolve identity issues.
Literature
- In literature, authors portray characters through descriptive language, dialogue, and inner thoughts.
- The complexity of character portrayal can lead to rich narratives where readers empathize with their struggles.
- Classic novels often explore themes of identity and self-portrayal, such as in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde.
Origin of 'portraying'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Middle French 'portraire,' which means to draw or to paint.
- It combines 'por-' meaning 'forward' and 'trait' meaning 'to draw' or 'to pull'.
- First known use of 'portraying' dates back to the late 16th century.
The word 'portraying' comes from the Old French word 'portraire', meaning 'to depict or portray'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. Over the years, 'portraying' has been commonly used in the context of art and acting, reflecting the human desire to represent the world around us through various forms of expression.
See also: portray, portrayable, portrayal.