Translation guide
MD is an abbreviation for "medical doctor" or "Doctor of Medicine." In Japanese, it is typically expressed as 医師 (ishi) or 医者 (isha), with specific titles used in formal contexts.
Referring to a medical doctor in general conversation or writing.
Common, everyday term for a medical doctor. Suitable for casual and polite contexts.
彼は医者です。
He is a doctor.
You should see a doctor.
More formal term for a medical doctor, often used in official contexts or when emphasizing professional status.
Please follow the doctor's instructions.
Loanword from English, used in casual contexts or as a title. Often used when addressing a doctor directly.
Doctor, I have a question.
Referring to the academic degree or professional title "MD" specifically.
Equivalent to "Doctor of Medicine" or MD as an academic degree. Used in formal contexts.
He holds an MD degree.
In many cases, simply stating someone is a 医師 implies they have an MD, as it is the standard qualification. No need to explicitly mention the degree.
She is an MD.
How to address a medical doctor directly in conversation.
The standard honorific title used when addressing or referring to a doctor (as well as teachers, lawyers, etc.). Attach to the family name: [Name]先生.
Good morning, Dr. Tanaka.
Less common but used in some modern or Western-influenced settings. Often used without the name.
Doctor, what are the results?
医者 (isha) is the common, everyday word for a medical doctor. 医師 (ishi) is more formal and often used in legal, official, or professional contexts. When in doubt, 医者 is safe for general use.
Always use 先生 (sensei) when addressing a doctor directly or referring to them politely. This is the standard and most respectful way.
Doctor, could you change my medication?