脇役

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 脇役 is read as わきやく and means a supporting role or minor character.
• Basic usage: It can mean a supporting role or minor character and can extend figuratively to something that supports the main element.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Playing a supporting film role
  • 脇役: He played the main character's friend in a supporting role in the film. Example: 彼は映画で主人公の友人という脇役を演じた。
• Spices in a supporting role
  • 脇役: Even in a small amount, spices play an important supporting role in a dish. Example: 香辛料は少量でも料理を支える大切な脇役だ。