supporting role; minor character; co-star
Meanings
3 senses · 8 examplesverb
to co-star (in traditional opera, with both actors playing lead roles)
technicalSpecialized theatrical term primarily used in Peking Opera and traditional Chinese theatre. The example sentence shows the headword acting as a verb meaning 'to perform as co-leads'.
The two of them often co-star together, having performed in productions like 'The General and the Prime Minister' and 'Gathering of Heroes'.
These two famous performers often partner as co-leads, deeply loved by opera fans.
noun
supporting role; minor character (in drama, film, etc.)
Refers to actors or characters who are not the leads. Often collocates with awards like 'Best Supporting Actor'.
He played a supporting role in this film, but his acting was outstanding.
This actor won the Best Supporting Actor award for his supporting role.
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Don't underestimate supporting roles; sometimes they outshine the leads.
noun
supporting player; person in a secondary or auxiliary role (figurative)
Often used in modest or self-deprecating contexts. Common collocations include '甘当配角' (willingly play a supporting role).
In this project, I am willing to play a supporting role, cooperating with everyone to complete the task.
Although the red flower is beautiful, it still needs green leaves to support it; we who play supporting roles are equally important.
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Don't always want to be the lead; learning to be a good supporting player is also a kind of wisdom.