To act a part; to play a role (as an actor).
彼は新しい映画で主人公を演じた。
He played the lead role in the new movie.
彼女は舞台で難しい役を見事に演じた。
She performed a difficult role brilliantly on stage.
子どもたちが学芸会で動物の役を演じた。
The children played the parts of animals at the school performance.
To perform (a play, piece, or production); to put on a performance.
地元の劇団が来月、古典劇を演じる。
The local troupe will perform a classic play next month.
学校で生徒たちが短い劇を演じる予定だ。
Students are scheduled to put on a short play at school.
そのオーケストラは毎年新作を演じることで知られている。
The orchestra is known for performing new works every year.
To commit a blunder or disgrace oneself; to make a conspicuous mistake or scene.
会議で彼は大失態を演じてしまった。
He made a huge blunder at the meeting.
酔った客が店で騒ぎを演じ、店側は困っていた。
A drunken customer caused a scene in the store, and the staff were troubled.
To pretend or put on an appearance (e.g. to pretend to be a good father).
彼は良い父親を演じているが、実際は家にあまりいない。
He acts like a good father, but in reality he isn't home much.
病気のふりを演じて休みを取った社員がいた。
There was an employee who pretended to be sick to take time off.