portray

[pɔːˈtreɪ]

portray Definition

  • 1to depict or describe someone or something in a particular way
  • 2to play the role of a character in a movie, play, or TV show

Using portray: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "portray" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The artist portrayed her as a strong and independent woman.

  • Example

    The movie portrays a dystopian future where technology has taken over.

  • Example

    He portrayed the villain in the play.

  • Example

    The media often portrays celebrities in a negative light.

portray Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using portray

  • portray in a good/bad light

    to represent someone or something in a positive/negative way

    Example

    The article portrayed the politician in a bad light, making him look corrupt and dishonest.

  • to create a mental image of something

    Example

    The author's vivid descriptions really helped to portray a picture of the setting in my mind.

  • to present oneself in a particular manner

    Example

    She always tries to portray herself in a professional manner at work.

Phrases with portray

  • to represent oneself as a particular type of person

    Example

    He always portrays himself as a successful businessman, but I don't think he's doing very well.

  • to play the role of a character in a movie, play, or TV show

    Example

    She portrayed a detective in the TV series.

  • to present a particular image or impression of oneself or something

    Example

    The company wants to portray an image of being environmentally friendly.

Origins of portray

from Old French 'portraire', meaning 'to depict'

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Summary: portray in Brief

To 'portray' [pɔːˈtreɪ] is to depict or describe someone or something in a particular way, or to play the role of a character in a movie, play, or TV show. It can be used to describe how someone presents themselves, as in 'He always portrays himself as a successful businessman,' or to describe how the media represents someone, as in 'The media often portrays celebrities in a negative light.'

How do native speakers use this expression?