ruolo

role

noun RWOH-loh Common

Origin: French rôle, from Medieval Latin rotulus, 'scroll' (actors' parts written on a scroll)

Usage Note

Ruolo entered Italian via French theatrical usage and still applies to acting (un ruolo da protagonista, a leading role) as well as professional and social roles (il ruolo del padre, the role of the father). The phrase di ruolo means 'tenured' (of a public employee with permanent status).

Examples

"Ha recitato un ruolo importante nel film."

Natural Translation

He played an important role in the film.

Literal Translation

He-has acted a role important in-the film.

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