noun
kyogen; comic interlude in Noh
Traditional comic theater performed between Noh plays or as an interlude; distinct from the modern figurative use.
能の合間に狂言が上演された。
A kyogen piece was performed during the interlude of the Noh play.
noun
kabuki play; kabuki performance
Historical term for a kabuki play or performance; now largely replaced by 歌舞伎.
江戸時代には、狂言という言葉が歌舞伎の演目を指すこともあった。
In the Edo period, the word 狂言 sometimes referred to kabuki performances.
noun
Figurative use: a pretense or staged act, often with a negative connotation of deception.
彼の謝罪はただの狂言だった。
His apology was just a sham.
その事件は狂言だったと警察が発表した。
The police announced that the incident was a hoax.