[qǐ zuò yòng]
（起影響） play a part (in)
They are playing an increasingly important part [role] in safeguarding peace.
他們對保衛和平起著越來越重要的作用。
His words were taking effect, which was clear.
很明顯， 他的話在起作用了。
Some English adverbs function as adjectives.
有些英語形容詞起副詞作用。