Translation guide
A person of high rank or importance, especially in government or formal settings. Japanese expressions vary by context, from formal titles to descriptive phrases.
Referring to a person holding a high position in government, diplomacy, or formal institutions.
Standard term for a high-ranking government official. Neutral and widely understood.
Describing a person of honor invited to a ceremony, banquet, or formal gathering.
高官 specifically refers to high-ranking officials within an organization, while 要人 is broader and can include any important person, such as business leaders or celebrities, often in contexts requiring security.
Directly translating 'dignitary' as 威厳のある人 (person with dignity) sounds unnatural. Use the context-appropriate terms above.
政府の高官が会議に出席した。
Government dignitaries attended the meeting.
Refers to an important person, often in political or security contexts. Commonly used in news.
外国の要人が来日した。
Foreign dignitaries visited Japan.
A slightly colloquial, sometimes ironic term for bigwigs or higher-ups. Use with caution in formal settings.
会議室にはお偉方が集まっていた。
The dignitaries were gathered in the conference room.
A literary or formal term for a high official. Rare in everyday speech.
彼は朝廷の顕官として仕えた。
He served as a dignitary of the imperial court.
Standard term for a guest of honor at an event. Used in invitations and formal speeches.
来賓の皆様、ようこそお越しくださいました。
Distinguished guests, thank you for coming.
Refers to a noble or highly esteemed guest, often used for royalty or top officials.
貴賓席には各国の大使が座っていた。
Dignitaries from various countries were seated in the VIP section.