The use of the term “role-play” comes up often enough among TTRPG players to be worth mentioning. Usually in the context of, “I’m role-playing my character,” or “I like 50% combat and 50% role-play in my campaign.” Often, what players and GM’s mean by “role-play” isn’t discussed, described or defined. It is just assumed that everyone has agreed on what “role-play” means in those situations. I don’t think that word means what most RPG players think it means. What most people mean by “role-play” is  improvisational dialog with NPC’s and narrative exploration of the setting.

“Role-Play” to me is what is says on the tin. You play a role. You, the player, make choices as if you were the character. Combat is role-playing. Talking to NPC’s is role-playing. Disarming a trap is role-playing.  Improvisational dialog with NPC’s is role-playing. Exploring the setting is role-playing.

It is more helpful to a game master to describe the specific activities you want your characters to engage in and the specific type of experience you want to have while playing the game.