When combined, `角色 (juésè)` means “character” or “role,” and `扮演 (bànyǎn)` means “to act as” or “to play the part of.” The term is a very direct and literal description of the activity: “to play the part of a character.”
Cosplay culture in China, like in many parts of the world, was imported from Japan in the late 1990s and has since exploded in popularity, particularly among post-90s and post-00s generations. It's a key component of the broader `二次元 (èr cì yuán)`, or “2D world,” subculture. A key difference from Western “costuming” (like for Halloween) is the emphasis on accuracy and embodiment. A serious Chinese `Coser` doesn't just wear a costume; they strive to replicate the character's look, personality, and mannerisms with high fidelity. Craftsmanship, photography, and photo editing (`后期 hòuqī`) are integral parts of the hobby. Cosplay is not tied to a specific holiday. Instead, it revolves around `漫展 (mànzhǎn)`, or anime/comic conventions, which are held year-round in major cities. These events are social gatherings where Cosers showcase their work, meet friends, and participate in photoshoots and competitions. For many young people, cosplay is a powerful form of self-expression, creativity, and community-building, allowing them to connect with others who share their passions in a world that is often highly focused on academic and professional pressure.
While `角色扮演` is the formal term you'd see in a news article or academic paper, it is almost never used in casual conversation within the community. The daily language of Chinese cosplay is a mix of Chinese and English-derived slang.
In short, to sound natural, use the slang. Use `角色扮演` to formally define the hobby.