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portrayal

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /pɔːˈtreɪəl/

KK: /pɔrˈtreɪəl/

noun
Definition

A way of showing or describing someone or something, often in art, literature, or performance.


Example

The portrayal of the main character in the movie was very realistic.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see the new movie about the artist?
Sloth B
Yeah, I thought the portrayal of his life was really interesting.
Sloth A
I agree! The way they depicted his struggles was so powerful.
Sloth B
Absolutely, it really made me appreciate his work even more.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
depiction
representation
illustration
Antonyms
misrepresentation
falsification
distortion
Root Explanation

Portrayal → It is formed from "portray" (from Old French *portraire*, meaning to represent or depict) and the suffix "-al" (meaning relating to). The word "portrayal" refers to the act of depicting or representing something, especially in art or literature.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'portray' which means to represent something, and remember that 'portrayal' is about the act of representing or depicting that thing.

Visually Confused Words
preportrayal
nonportrayal
unportrayable
prebetrayal
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