役割を果たす
fulfill a role
Literally: to fulfill (果たす) a role (役割)
Use this phrase to describe someone successfully completing their specific duty or a tool serving its purpose.
In 15 Seconds
- Successfully doing what is expected of you in a group.
- Used for both people's duties and an object's purpose.
- A key phrase for teamwork, workplace success, and social responsibility.
Meaning
This phrase means doing exactly what is expected of you in a specific situation or group. It is about stepping up and successfully completing the 'part' you were meant to play.
Key Examples
3 of 6Praising a teammate after a project
彼はリーダーとしての役割をしっかり果たした。
He firmly fulfilled his role as a leader.
Talking about a reliable old car
この車は10年間、十分な役割を果たしてくれた。
This car has fully fulfilled its role for ten years.
Discussing a wedding speech
スピーチをして、ようやく私の役割を果たせました。
By giving the speech, I was finally able to fulfill my role.
Cultural Background
In Japanese culture, the concept of 'yakuwari' (role) is fundamental to social harmony (wa). From the 'toban' system in schools to specific roles in a corporate hierarchy, fulfilling one's designated part is often valued more than individual standout performance. It reflects the 'Meiwaku' culture—not wanting to trouble others by failing your duties.
The 'Hatasu' Connection
The verb `果たす` (hatasu) is also used for 'fulfilling a promise' (`約束を果たす`). It always implies bringing something to a successful conclusion.
The School Connection
Japanese people are used to this phrase because of 'toban' (duty turns) in school. Asking 'What is my role?' is a very natural way to integrate into a Japanese group.
In 15 Seconds
- Successfully doing what is expected of you in a group.
- Used for both people's duties and an object's purpose.
- A key phrase for teamwork, workplace success, and social responsibility.
What It Means
Think of life as a giant play. Everyone has a part. When you do your part well, you are 役割を果たす. It is more than just 'doing a job.' It implies a sense of duty. You are meeting a specific expectation. It feels satisfying and complete. It is like finishing a mission.
How To Use It
You use the object marker を after 役割. Then you add the verb 果たす. This verb is strong. It means to carry something out to the very end. You can use it for people. You can also use it for things. For example, a sturdy umbrella fulfills its role during a storm. It is a very versatile collocation.
When To Use It
Use this in team settings. Think about office projects or sports teams. If the goalie stops the ball, they fulfilled their role. Use it when praising someone. 'You really fulfilled your role today!' sounds great. It also works for social duties. Maybe you were the 'designated driver' at a party. You had a role. You did it. Success!
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for tiny, personal habits. You do not 'fulfill a role' by brushing your teeth. That is just a chore. Avoid using it for things that happen by accident. Fulfilling a role requires intent. It also feels a bit heavy for very casual favors. If you just lent a friend a pen, this phrase is too dramatic. You are not a hero; you just have stationery.
Cultural Background
Japan is often described as a 'role-based' society. From a young age, kids have specific duties. In schools, students take turns serving lunch or cleaning. This is called toban. Because of this, knowing your yakuwari is a big deal. It is how society stays organized. Doing your part is seen as a sign of maturity. It shows you care about the group's harmony.
Common Variations
You will often see 重要な役割を果たす. This means 'to play a vital role.' It is very common in news reports. Another one is 期待された役割. This means 'the role expected of me.' If you want to sound humble, you might say you 'want' to fulfill your role. It shows you are a team player. Everyone loves a team player!
Usage Notes
The phrase is neutral but carries a weight of responsibility. It is highly effective in professional settings or when discussing group dynamics. Avoid using it for trivial, individual actions.
The 'Hatasu' Connection
The verb `果たす` (hatasu) is also used for 'fulfilling a promise' (`約束を果たす`). It always implies bringing something to a successful conclusion.
The School Connection
Japanese people are used to this phrase because of 'toban' (duty turns) in school. Asking 'What is my role?' is a very natural way to integrate into a Japanese group.
Don't Overuse for Small Things
If you use this for something tiny, like passing the salt, it sounds like you're being sarcastic or overly dramatic. Save it for actual 'roles'!
Examples
6彼はリーダーとしての役割をしっかり果たした。
He firmly fulfilled his role as a leader.
Using 'shikkari' (firmly/properly) adds a nice touch of praise.
この車は10年間、十分な役割を果たしてくれた。
This car has fully fulfilled its role for ten years.
Shows that objects can also 'fulfill a role' in Japanese.
スピーチをして、ようやく私の役割を果たせました。
By giving the speech, I was finally able to fulfill my role.
The speaker feels a sense of relief after completing a duty.
今日は幹事の役割を果たすから任せて！
I'll fulfill my role as the organizer today, so leave it to me!
A bit formal for a text, but used here to show commitment.
うちの猫は、目覚まし時計の役割を果たしている。
My cat fulfills the role of an alarm clock.
Uses the phrase playfully to describe a pet's habit.
親としての役割を果たすために頑張ります。
I will do my best to fulfill my role as a parent.
Expresses a deep sense of responsibility and resolve.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct verb to complete the phrase meaning 'to fulfill a role'.
チームのために、自分の役割を___たいです。
The standard collocation is 'yakuwari o hatasu'. 'Tsukuru' means to make, and 'owaru' means to end.
Which particle is used between 'yakuwari' and 'hatasu'?
彼は重要な役割___果たした。
The particle 'o' is used because 'yakuwari' is the direct object of the verb 'hatasu'.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of '役割を果たす'
Used jokingly with friends or for pets.
My cat is my alarm.
Standard use in daily conversations about work or duties.
I did my part in the group project.
Used in business reports, news, or wedding speeches.
The company fulfilled its social role.
When to use '役割を果たす'
At the Office
Completing a project task.
In Sports
A defender blocking a shot.
With Technology
A battery lasting all day.
Family Life
Taking care of household chores.
Social Events
Being the MC at a party.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, you can use it objectively. For example, 彼は敵としての役割を果たした (He fulfilled his role as an enemy).
Absolutely! Saying 貢献し、役割を果たしたい (I want to contribute and fulfill my role) sounds very professional and reliable.
役に立つ means 'to be useful' in general. 役割を果たす is more specific about a pre-assigned duty or part.
You would usually say 役割を果たせなくなった (It became unable to fulfill its role) or 役割を終えた (It finished its role/life).
Yes, especially in shonen anime where characters talk about their 'mission' or 'destiny' in a team.
You can, but it sounds very basic. 果たす makes you sound much more fluent and emphasizes the completion of the task.
You would say 役割を果たせませんでした (yakuwari o hatasemasen deshita).
Not exactly. A 'job' is 仕事 (shigoto). 役割 is the specific function or part you play within that job or a situation.
Only if that hobby involves a group role, like being the 'map reader' for a hiking group.
It's a bit formal, but using it to praise a friend makes you sound sincere and thoughtful.
Related Phrases
責任を果たす
to fulfill one's responsibility
役に立つ
to be useful / helpful
一役買う
to take on a role / take part in
役目を終える
to finish one's duty / serve its purpose
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