Portraying: meaning, definitions and examples

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portraying

[pɔːˈtreɪɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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. The actor was praised for portraying the complex emotions of the character. The novel does an excellent job of portraying the struggles of its protagonist.
depicting	Appropriate for describing the way an artist or writer shows a particular scene, event, or idea, often in detail. The painting is famous for depicting the beauty of rural life. The documentary is excellent at depicting the harsh realities of climate change.
representing	Used when discussing how something stands for or symbolizes something else, often in an abstract or symbolic way. The statue is meant to be representing freedom and justice. The flag's colors have special meanings, with each representing a different value.
illustrating	Commonly used when talking about providing visual representations or examples in books, articles, or educational materials. The textbook does a great job of illustrating complex scientific concepts. The children's book is beautifully illustrated with colorful drawings.

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.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

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

acting, performing, playing.

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. She received high praise for portraying Queen Elizabeth II in the film The painting does a wonderful job of portraying the serene beauty of the countryside
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. She loves playing the role of Juliet in the school play The children were playing soccer in the park
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. He started acting at a young age and has now starred in multiple blockbuster movies Acting in the local theater helped her gain confidence in public speaking
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. The band was performing on the main stage at the festival She is performing a complex ballet routine in tonight's recital

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "portraying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 retratar

🇮🇳 अभिनय करना

🇩🇪 darstellen

🇮🇩 menggambarkan

🇺🇦 зображати

🇵🇱 przedstawiać

🇯🇵 描写する (びょうしゃする)

🇫🇷 représenter

🇪🇸 retratar

🇹🇷 tasvir etmek

🇰🇷 묘사하다

🇸🇦 تصوير

🇨🇿 zobrazovat

🇸🇰 zobrazovať

🇨🇳 描绘 (miáohuì)

🇸🇮 upodabljati

🇮🇸 lýsa

🇰🇿 суреттеу

🇬🇪 გამოსახვა

🇦🇿 təsvir etmək

🇲🇽 retratar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,980, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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17977 grapefruit
17978 analgesic
17979 friar
17980 portraying
17981 rebuked
17982 drone
17983 affront
...