C1verbartsmedia
US/pɔːrˈtreɪ/
UK/pɔːˈtreɪ/
to show someone or something in a particular way in art, film or writing; to play a character
In context
The documentary portrays the singer as a shy and lonely woman.
The actor who portrays the king learned to ride a horse for the role.
Social media often portrays travel as easy and endlessly fun.
Words that go with portray
verb + preposition
- portray asThe press portrayed the strikers as troublemakers.
verb + noun
- portray a characterShe portrays a character who is slowly losing her memory.
- portray the roleWho will portray the role of the villain in the remake?
adverb + verb
- accurately portrayFew hospital dramas accurately portray what nurses really do.
- negatively portrayedTeenagers are often negatively portrayed in the news.
- realistically portrayThe game tries to realistically portray daily life in ancient Rome.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The film portrays him like a hero.Correct: The film portrays him as a hero.