Role: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to emphasize the importance or specific part someone plays in a broader context.

• He has a leadership role in the community
• Her role in the project was to oversee the timelines

Describes the purpose or activity for which a person or thing is specifically suited or used. Often used in technical or formal contexts.

• The function of this device is to record data
• Each team member has a different function

Refers to tasks or obligations required to be performed, often because of a moral, legal, or official reason.

• It is your duty to report any unethical behavior
• Police officers have a duty to protect the public

Indicates a duty or task expected to be carried out, often implying accountability and trust.

• You have the responsibility to complete your assignments on time
• Being a manager comes with many responsibilities

This word is typically used when referring to a specific function or duty someone has in an organization, project, or production such as a movie or play. It’s often used in professional and formal contexts.

• She was offered the role of project manager
• He played the role of Hamlet in the play

This is mostly used to describe a fictional person in a book, movie, play, or story. It can also refer to someone's personality traits.

• Harry Potter is a beloved character in the book series
• He has a strong character, always helping others

This word is often used interchangeably with 'role' when referring to acting, but can also be used more broadly to indicate a component or segment of something larger.

• She auditioned for the part of Juliet
• This part of the machine needs to be replaced

This term generally refers to the aspect of someone's character that is presented to or perceived by others. It can also mean a role or character adopted by someone, especially an actor. It can sometimes carry a connotation of artificiality or pretense.

• He adopted a charming persona to win over the audience
• Her public persona is very different from her private self

Used to describe a position or responsibility that someone has in a particular situation or in an organization.

• She plays a crucial role in the company
• What is your role in this project?

Used to refer to a specific action or behavior, particularly in a performance or an instance of doing something.

• His act of kindness was appreciated
• She decided to act quickly to solve the problem

Used to discuss the purpose or duty that something is designed to perform or the way in which it operates.

• The primary function of this machine is to print documents
• What is the function of this tool?

Used to describe carrying out an action, task, or piece of work. Often used in artistic or professional contexts.

• She will perform on stage tonight
• He needs to perform his duties efficiently