play a role

VERB

copy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

emulate illustrate mimic pirate repeat simulate steal

STRONG

ape burlesque do echo embody epitomize fake follow incarnate mirror mock model parody parrot personify phony prefigure sham travesty typify

WEAK

act like do a take-off do like follow example follow suit go like knock off make like take leaf out of book take off

Antonyms

STRONG

tell the truth

WEAK

be original

VERB

impersonate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

act like imitate masquerade as mimic portray pose as

STRONG

act ape ditto do enact fake mirror perform personate play playact represent

WEAK

act a part act out assume character do an impression of double as dress as make like pass oneself off as put on an act take the part of

Antonyms

STRONG

direct fail halt idle prevent stop

WEAK

be original differ oppose reverse

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Fifty years after the Supreme Court reinstated the death penalty as constitutionally permissible after a brief ban, these figures are a reminder that executions still play a role in American life.

From Slate • Jun. 8, 2026

Real Madrid will play a role during Leo's week-long trip to Spain, which takes in the capital and Barcelona.

From Barron's • Jun. 6, 2026

Scientists refer to this as a Trojan horse effect, and the researchers say it may also play a role in the spread of antibiotic resistance.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

Perhaps it could only have been now that Robinson was ready for this moment - he admitted he was "nowhere near" being able to play a role in the Ashes.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

“An actor hired to play a role by MI6.”

From "City Spies" by James Ponti

play a role

Example Sentences

Related Words