Many factors can influence the same outcome.
The idea
Play a role in means contribute to or influence a result or process. Add an adjective such as key or small to show its importance.
Examples
- Good lighting plays a role in keeping the workshop safe.
- Local artists played a key role in the festival’s success.
- Sleep can play an important role in memory.
- A delayed train played a small role in their late arrival.
- Her patient questions played a part in resolving the dispute.
- The river plays a central role in the town’s economy.
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Watch out
Avoid make a role in this meaning; say play a role.
Try it yourself
Choose the missing word. The guide can ___ a role in building trust. (play / plays)
Show answer or example answer
play
play follows the modal verb in its base form.
Choose the missing word. Clear signs played a role ___ reducing confusion. (in / at)
Show answer or example answer
in
in introduces the process affected by the signs.
Choose the missing word. The volunteers ___ a vital role in yesterday’s rescue. (played / play)
Show answer or example answer
played
played fits the completed event yesterday.
Practice round
Answer questions and rebuild English sentences to practise. Your score is shown.
Choose the missing word. The guide can ___ a role in building trust. (play / plays)
Choose the missing word. Clear signs played a role ___ reducing confusion. (in / at)
Choose the missing word. The volunteers ___ a vital role in yesterday’s rescue. (played / play)
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe something that plays a role in your community.