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Synonyms

acting

American  
[ak-ting] / ˈæk tɪŋ /

adjective

  1. serving temporarily, especially as a substitute during another's absence; not permanent; temporary.

    the acting mayor.

    Synonyms:
    interim, provisional
  2. designed, adapted, or suitable for stage performance.

  3. provided with detailed stage directions for the performer.

    an acting version of a play.


noun

  1. the art, profession, or activity of those who perform in stage plays, motion pictures, etc.

acting British  
/ ˈæktɪŋ /

adjective

  1. taking on duties temporarily, esp as a substitute for another

    the acting president

  2. operating or functioning

    an acting order

  3. intended for stage performance; provided with directions for actors

    an acting version of ``Hedda Gabler''

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

noun

  1. the art or profession of an actor

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

  • proacting adjective
  • unacting adjective

Etymology

Origin of acting

First recorded in 1595–1605; act + -ing 2, -ing 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He offers a useful outline of digital transformation: digitization, integration, analysis and finally acting on insights to change behavior.

From The Wall Street Journal

He hit superb lines, either hitting the ball up bravely into the heart of Wales defence or acting as a decoy, and worked instinctively with Northampton team-mate Fraser Dingwall inside him at 12.

From BBC

"I was initially hesitant as I had no experience in acting and was concerned about the long travel from home," she says.

From BBC

Jeff D'Onofrio, who joined as chief financial officer of the newspaper last year, will serve as acting publisher and CEO, the Post said as it announced Lewis's departure.

From BBC

In the last three months of the year, Alt5 announced the departure of the chief executive, acting chief executive and chief financial officer, chief operating officer, and a board member who chaired the audit committee.

From The Wall Street Journal