Translation guide
A follower or scholar of Confucianism. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the term 儒学者 (じゅがくしゃ), but related words exist for different contexts.
儒学者
Confucianist (scholar)
Referring to a person who studies, teaches, or follows Confucianism.
The standard term for a Confucian scholar or academic. Neutral and widely understood.
彼は有名な儒学者です。
He is a famous Confucianist.
Can refer to the Confucian school of thought or a follower of it. Often used in historical or philosophical contexts.
彼は儒家の教えを広めた。
He spread the teachings of the Confucianists.
A somewhat older term for a Confucian scholar, still used in historical or traditional contexts.
江戸時代には多くの儒者が活躍した。
Many Confucianists were active in the Edo period.