noun
General term for a stage or screen actor. Often used in compound expressions like 役者不足 (shortage of actors) or 役者根性 (actor's temperament). Compare 俳優, which is more formal and commonly used for film/TV actors.
See also: 俳優
彼は舞台役者として有名だ。
He is famous as a stage actor.
あの役者は演技がとても自然だ。
That actor's performance is very natural.
noun
clever person; man of wits; cunning fellow
Figurative use referring to someone who is shrewd, resourceful, or good at playing a role in social situations. Often implies a degree of cunning or theatricality in real life. Can be used in phrases like 役者が一枚上 (one level above in cleverness).
彼はなかなかの役者で、交渉がうまい。
He's quite a clever operator and negotiates skillfully.
あの政治家は役者だね。
That politician is a real performer (a cunning fellow).