Synonyms for

Role

Verb / rəʊl / Another word for role — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A part or function performed by a person in a particular situation.

Synonyms & similar words

theatricalrole office persona use purpose function character part part function duty responsibility position job task assignment post office capacity place situation standing status sphere domain realm field area

Synonyms by register

Formal

function capacity part position

Informal

gig job part bit

Literary

guise persona mask

Antonyms

unimportance insignificance irrelevance nonentity nobody

Common collocations

  • play a role
  • key role
  • leading role
  • supporting role
  • important role
  • specific role
  • fulfill a role
  • define a role

Word family

noun role
verb role-play

Usage note

While 'role' is often used informally to mean 'job' or 'task', its primary meaning relates to a character or function. Avoid using it for a simple task unless it's within a specific context like acting or a defined system.

Example sentences

  1. My role in the group project is to be the researcher.
  2. The teacher's role is to teach the students.
  3. The doctor's role is to take care of patients.
  4. The police officer's role is to keep the community safe.
  5. The parent's role is to take care of their child.

Quotes

  • The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle. As with all matters of the heart, you'll know when you find it. - Steve Jobs
  • Find out what you like doing best and get someone to pay you for doing it. - Katherine Whitehorn
  • The only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. - Steve Jobs

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