Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a cashier is expressed differently depending on context. The most common term is レジ係 for a store cashier, while 会計係 is used in restaurants. For addressing a cashier, すみません is the natural way to get their attention.
Referring to the person who works at a checkout counter in a shop, supermarket, etc.
The most common and natural term for a cashier in a retail setting. レジ is short for 'register'.
レジ係の女性がとても親切だった。
The cashier (woman) was very kind.
A casual, conversational way to refer to the cashier. Literally 'the register person'.
レジの人に聞いてみよう。
Let's ask the cashier.
A more formal term for a cashier or teller, often used in banks or offices. Can sound stiff in everyday retail contexts.
銀行の会計係に両替を頼んだ。
I asked the bank cashier to exchange money.
The person who handles payment at a restaurant, often at a counter near the exit.
In restaurant contexts, 会計係 is the standard term for the person handling the bill. However, it's more common to refer to the act of paying rather than the person.
会計係のところでお金を払った。
I paid at the cashier.
Also used in casual restaurant settings, especially if there is a visible register.
How to get the attention of a cashier or call them over.
The most natural way to get a cashier's attention is simply saying 'すみません' (excuse me). There is no need for a specific title.
すみません、これお願いします。
Excuse me, I'd like to pay for this please.
A softer, more hesitant way to get attention, similar to 'um, excuse me'.
あのう、レジはどこですか？
Um, where is the cashier?
Referring to the physical place where you pay, not the person.
Short for 'register', this is the most common word for the checkout counter itself. Often used in phrases like レジに並ぶ (line up at the cashier).
レジはあちらです。
The cashier is over there.
レジに長い列ができている。
There's a long line at the cashier.
Used in restaurants for the place where you pay. お会計 is a polite version.
While レジ係 is correct, in many situations Japanese speakers refer to the register (レジ) rather than the person. Saying 'レジの人' is more natural than using a formal job title in casual conversation.
In many Japanese restaurants, you take your bill to a counter near the exit to pay, rather than paying at the table. The person there may be called 会計係, but you can simply say 'お会計お願いします' when you hand over the bill.
スーパーでレジ係として働いていました。
I worked as a cashier at a supermarket.
レジの人がお釣りを間違えました。
The cashier gave me the wrong change.
ファミレスのレジ係はいつも忙しそうだ。
The cashier at the family restaurant always looks busy.
お会計は出口のところです。
The cashier is by the exit.