Translation guide
A doctor who provides general medical care for individuals and families, often serving as the first point of contact for health concerns.
The most common and neutral way to refer to a family physician in Japanese.
Literally 'doctor one regularly visits'. This is the most natural and common term for a family physician or primary care doctor in Japan. It emphasizes the ongoing relationship.
When referring to the doctor at a local clinic who serves as a family physician.
Literally 'neighborhood doctor'. This is a very natural, friendly way to refer to a local family physician, especially in casual conversation.
近所のお医者さんに診てもらいました。
I saw my neighborhood doctor.
かかりつけ医 is the most common and natural term for a family physician in Japan. 家庭医 is a direct translation but sounds more formal and is less frequently used in daily speech. Use かかりつけ医 when talking about your regular doctor.
Adding さん to 医者 (いしゃ) makes it polite and friendly. お医者さん is a common way to refer to a doctor in casual conversation, similar to 'doc' in English but more respectful.
かかりつけ医に相談してください。
Please consult your family physician.
私はかかりつけ医がいます。
I have a family physician.
Literally 'family doctor'. This is a direct translation and is understood, but less commonly used in everyday conversation than かかりつけ医. It is more formal and may be used in medical contexts or official titles.
家庭医の役割は重要です。
The role of the family physician is important.
Means 'attending physician' or 'primary doctor' for a specific condition or ongoing treatment. It is not exactly 'family physician' but can be used if the doctor manages your overall health. Use with caution as it implies a more formal, ongoing medical relationship.
This term is often used for a doctor treating a specific illness, not necessarily for general family care.
主治医に紹介状を書いてもらいました。
I got a referral letter from my primary doctor.
Literally 'town doctor'. Refers to a local general practitioner, often with a long-standing presence in the community. It carries a slightly old-fashioned, warm connotation.
あの町医者はとても親切だ。
That town doctor is very kind.