Translation guide
The English word 'chief' can refer to a leader of a group, the most important thing, or a high-ranking official. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the person in charge of a team, department, tribe, or organization.
A common suffix meaning 'head' or 'chief' of a group. Attach to the group name.
彼は部長です。
He is the department chief.
The new school principal will take office next week.
Loanword from English, used in business or creative contexts (e.g., chief editor, chief designer).
She is the chief of the project.
Often translated as 'chief' in job titles, but implies a senior staff member or supervisor rather than top leader.
He is the sales chief.
Specifically a tribal chief or clan leader.
The chief preserves the tribe's traditions.
Describing the main or principal thing among others.
Referring to a top official in a government or uniformed service.
In English, 'chief' is often used as a standalone title (e.g., 'Chief, can I ask you something?'). In Japanese, directly addressing someone as 長 or チーフ is unnatural. Use their name with an appropriate title (e.g., 部長, 田中さん) or simply omit the title if the relationship is clear.
Chief, I'd like to ask you something.
The chief objective is to expand market share.
Safety is the chief concern.
The fire chief arrived at the scene.