[qǐ zuò yòng]
（起影响） play a part (in)
They are playing an increasingly important part [role] in safeguarding peace.
他们对保卫和平起着越来越重要的作用。
His words were taking effect, which was clear.
很明显， 他的话在起作用了。
Some English adverbs function as adjectives.
有些英语形容词起副词作用。