主角

zhǔjué

leading role; lead

HSK 6

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"主角" (zhǔjué) literally means "main character" or "protagonist." It is commonly used in contexts related to stories, movies, plays, or any narrative where there is a central figure driving the plot.

Common Contexts

You will often hear "主角" when discussing films, TV dramas, novels, or theater. It refers to the character who plays the leading role, often the hero or heroine.

Collocations and Patterns

Nuances

Using "主角" emphasizes the importance of the character in the story. It is different from supporting roles or minor characters. When someone says "主角," it implies that this person is central to the narrative or event.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "主角" with "主演" (zhǔyǎn), which refers more to the actor playing the lead role rather than the character itself. "主角" focuses on the character, while "主演" focuses on the performer.

Example Sentences

这部电影的主角是一位勇敢的女战士。

Zhè bù diànyǐng de zhǔjué shì yī wèi yǒnggǎn de nǚ zhànshì.

The protagonist of this movie is a brave female warrior.

在这场戏里,他扮演了主角,表现非常出色。

Zài zhè chǎng xì lǐ, tā bànyǎn le zhǔjué, biǎoxiàn fēicháng chūsè.

In this play, he played the lead role and performed excellently.

虽然他不是主角,但他的表现同样令人印象深刻。

Suīrán tā bú shì zhǔjué, dàn tā de biǎoxiàn tóngyàng lìng rén yìnxiàng

Although he is not the protagonist, his performance is equally impressive.