Rolle

role

noun ROL-luh Common

Origin: from French rôle

Also means

roll

Usage Note

Rolle means a theatrical or social 'role' and also a physical 'roll' (of paper, film). The fixed phrase eine Rolle spielen ('to play a role / matter') and its dismissive cousin Das spielt keine Rolle ('that doesn't matter') are everyday staples.

Examples

"Sie spielt die Hauptrolle."

Natural Translation

She plays the lead role.

Literal Translation

She plays the main-role.

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