Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of an alumni association is expressed through several terms that differ by formality, scope, and context. The most common and neutral term is 同窓会 (どうそうかい), which refers to a reunion or organization of graduates from the same school. Other terms like 校友会 (こうゆうかい) and 学友会 (がくゆうかい) are more formal and often used in official names of university alumni associations. For a broader, more general group of former members of any organization, OB会 (オービーかい) or OG会 (オージーかい) are used, though these are somewhat informal and gender-specific.
Referring to an organization or gathering of graduates from the same school (elementary through university).
Referring to a group of former members of any organization, such as a company, club, or team.
Stands for 'Old Boys' association, used for male alumni or mixed-gender groups. Common for sports teams, clubs, and companies. Informal.
サッカー部のOB会が開かれます。
The soccer club alumni meeting will be held.
Stands for 'Old Girls' association, used for female alumni. Often used for all-female schools or groups.
同窓会 is the safest, most general term for school-related alumni associations and reunions. 校友会 is more formal and typically used in official university names. OB会 and OG会 are informal and used for non-school groups or specific clubs, often implying a shared experience beyond just graduation.
The direct translation '卒業生協会' (そつぎょうせいきょうかい) is not commonly used and may sound unnatural. Stick to the terms above.
The most common and neutral term for a school alumni association or reunion. Can refer to the organization itself or a specific reunion event.
来月、高校の同窓会があります。
There is a high school alumni reunion next month.
彼は同窓会の会長です。
He is the president of the alumni association.
A more formal term, often used in the official names of university alumni associations. Less common for casual reunions.
彼は東京大学の校友会に入っています。
He belongs to the University of Tokyo alumni association.
Similar to 校友会, used in some university names for their alumni association. Can also refer to a student council in some contexts, so be careful.
学友会の集まりに参加しました。
I attended a gathering of the alumni association.
I will attend the girls' school alumni association.