Translation guide
The English word 'audience' can refer to a group of people watching or listening to a performance, a formal meeting with an important person, or the readership of a publication. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to the people watching a performance, concert, lecture, etc.
The most common word for 'audience' at a performance, show, or sporting event. It specifically refers to the people present.
The audience applauded.
Used specifically for an audience that is listening, such as at a concert, lecture, or speech. Emphasizes the listening aspect.
Similar to 観客 but often used for larger crowds or spectators at public events. Slightly more formal or written.
A private or official meeting with a monarch, dignitary, or high-ranking person.
The people who read a book, watch a TV show, or consume a particular medium.
Specifically refers to the readership of a book, magazine, or article. Not used for TV or performance audiences.
The specific group of people something is aimed at, such as in marketing or education.
The audience gave a standing ovation.
His performance captivated the audience.
講演会には多くの聴衆が集まった。
A large audience gathered for the lecture.
スタジアムの観衆が歓声を上げた。
The audience in the stadium cheered.
A formal audience with a monarch or high-ranking official. Often used in historical or official contexts.
The ambassador had an audience with the king.
A humble expression for being granted an audience with a superior or noble. Used in historical or very formal settings.
I was granted an audience with the shogun.
A very formal and humble term for an audience with an emperor or high noble. Rarely used in modern Japanese.
I was granted an audience with His Majesty the Emperor.
This book is popular with a young audience.
Refers to viewers of TV programs or online videos. Combines 'watch' and 'listen'.
The program gained a large audience.
Specifically for radio listeners or podcast audiences. Less common than 視聴者.
The radio audience is declining.
Can also be used for the audience of a live broadcast or event, but not for readers or online viewers.
I participated as a member of the audience for the public recording.
Refers to the target audience or intended recipients of a product, service, or message.
The target audience for this advertisement is women in their 20s.
Loanword from English, commonly used in marketing and business contexts to mean 'target audience'.
The target audience for this product is young people.
Literally 'receiver', used in communication theory to refer to the audience or recipient of a message.
Interpretation varies depending on the audience.
The audience listened quietly.
観客 only refers to people physically present at an event. For readers of a book or article, use 読者. For TV viewers, use 視聴者.
She knows her audience well.