cast as

cast (one) as (something)

1. Literally, to assign one a specific role in a play, film, or other such performance. A noun or pronoun does not have to be used between "cast" and "as." I can't believe they cast me as Romeo—I only tried out for the chorus! My daughter is thrilled that she got cast as the lead in the school play.2. To see another person in a particular, often limited, way that reflects one's own biases. A noun or pronoun does not have to be used between "cast" and "as." None of my sister's friends will date me—I guess they cast me as the dopey little brother a long time ago.See also: cast

cast someone as something

 1. Lit. to choose someone to play a particular role in a play, opera, film, etc. The director cast her as the young singer. They cast me as a villain. 2. Fig. to decide or fantasize that someone is going to follow a particular pattern of behavior in real life. I'm afraid my teachers cast me as a dummy when I was very young. They cast me as someone who would not succeed.See also: cast