papel
/paˈpel/masculine
The Spanish word for 'role' is papel.
The word papel is used to describe a character or part. It can also refer to the physical material known as 'paper'.
Meaning: character or part (noun)
Which one should you use?
The word papel is a homonym that can mean both 'role' (in a play or social context) and 'paper' (the material).
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain Spanish dialects or regions, you might encounter the words tarea to mean 'task' or trabajo to mean 'work'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form papeles can refer to multiple roles in a production or to various documents/papers.
How do you pronounce it?
/paˈpel/
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying jugar un papel to mean 'to play a role'. This is a common mistake made by English speakers following a literal translation. In Spanish, jugar is used for games and sports. Instead, use the verb desempeñar or hacer when talking about performing a role.
Did you know?
- When referring to someone's legal status or identification, Spanish speakers use the plural papeles. Saying no tener papeles means a person is an undocumented immigrant, rather than lacking a theatrical role.
- The word papel is used in the expression papelón, which refers to a situation where someone makes a fool of themselves or causes a public embarrassment.
- The word papel traces its lineage back to the ancient Greek word πάπυρος, which referred to papyrus plants used for writing.
Examples in context
- Tengo un papel importante.I have an important role.This sentence shows how to describe an important papel.Tatoeba #1770576 by Shishir, translation #860109 by piksea
- Necesitas aceptar tu papel.You need to accept your role.This sentence demonstrates the use of papel regarding acceptance.Tatoeba #1593077 by teskmon, translation #1586720 by Gulliver
- Todos tienen un papel que desempeñar.Everyone has a role to play.This sentence illustrates the common expression for having a papel to play.Tatoeba #9472114 by dpcossio, translation #9409752 by Adelpa
- Su rol en el proyecto es crucialYour role in the project is crucial.
- Mi papel en el equipo de fútbol es ser el capitán.My role on the soccer team is to be the captain.
- Cada uno cumple su parteEveryone plays their role.
- Todos deben cumplir su parte en esta tarea.Everyone should play their role in this task.
- ¿Cuál es tu función en la empresa?What is your role in the company?
- Su rol en este proyecto será fundamental.His/her role in this project will be essential.
- 29 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Daniel and Elena are discussing a theater play.
- DanielElena, ¿ya sabes cuál es tu papel?Elena, do you already know what your role is?
- ElenaSí, tengo el papel de la reina.Yes, I have the role of the queen.
- DanielEs un papel muy difícil.It is a very difficult role.
- ElenaTienes razón, pero me gusta el desafío.You are right, but I like the challenge.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “role” translations and entries papel, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries papel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
