Translation guide
The English word 'businessman' can refer to a man engaged in business, often in a managerial or executive role. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is ビジネスマン, but other terms like 実業家 or サラリーマン may be used depending on context. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on the nuance they want to convey.
To refer to a man who works in business, especially in a corporate setting, without specifying his exact role or status.
The most direct and common translation. It is a loanword from English and widely understood. Suitable for most contexts, from casual to formal.
He is a capable businessman.
Refers to an entrepreneur or industrialist, someone who runs or owns a business. It carries a nuance of being a business owner or a person of significant standing, rather than just an employee.
To emphasize that the person is an entrepreneur, business owner, or someone who manages a company.
Means 'manager' or 'business owner'. It is a neutral term for someone who runs a business, regardless of gender, but can be used for a businessman in this sense.
He is the owner of a small company.
Similar to 実業家, but can also imply someone who undertakes new ventures. It emphasizes the aspect of running a business enterprise.
To describe a man who is dressed in a suit or is in a business setting, often used in observational contexts.
Literally 'a man wearing a suit'. This is a descriptive phrase used when the appearance or context is more important than the profession.
I saw a businessman (a man in a suit) at the station.
ビジネスマン is a broad term for any male business professional. サラリーマン specifically refers to a salaried office worker, often with connotations of a white-collar employee in a large corporation. 実業家 implies a business owner or entrepreneur with a higher status. Choose based on the person's role and the nuance you want to convey.
He is a businessman at a major corporation.
He is a typical salaryman, riding the crowded train every day.
He succeeded as a businessman (entrepreneur) at a young age.
Many businessmen work in this area.
He is a successful businessman (entrepreneur).
Literally 'salaryman', this refers specifically to a male white-collar office worker who is an employee of a company. It does not imply ownership or high executive status. Use only when the person is a typical company employee.
Not a direct equivalent of 'businessman' in the sense of an entrepreneur or executive. It can sound dated or stereotypical.
My father is an ordinary office worker.
彼は優れた事業家として知られています。
He is known as an outstanding businessman.