What does "portrayal" mean?

1. (artistic representation) the way an actor plays a character or how a person is shown in a work of art. 2. (description or account) the way something is described in words, especially in a news report or book.

How do you use "portrayal"?

Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the subject being represented. Frequently used in discussions about media bias or literary analysis.

portrayal

US //pɔɹˈtɹeɪəɫ// UK //pɔːtɹˈeɪəl// por·tray·al

1 artistic representation (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the way an actor plays a character or how a person is shown in a work of art.

the depiction of a person or character in a dramatic or artistic work, focusing on the quality or style of the performance or image.

Example

The actor's portrayal of the king was very powerful and moving.

Example

Critics praised her nuanced portrayal of the historical figure, noting that she captured the subtle contradictions of his personality with remarkable precision.

Usage

Often followed by the preposition 'of' to indicate the subject being represented.
2 description or account (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the way something is described in words, especially in a news report or book.

a verbal or written description that presents a particular view or interpretation of a situation or person.

Example

The newspaper's portrayal of the protest was quite different from what I saw.

Example

The documentary was criticised for its biased portrayal of the local community, which many residents felt relied on outdated and harmful stereotypes.

Usage

Frequently used in discussions about media bias or literary analysis.

Origin

From portray + -al.