Translation guide
The English word "foreman" refers to a worker who supervises other workers, typically in construction, manufacturing, or manual labor. In Japanese, the equivalent depends on the industry and context. Common terms include 現場監督 (genba kantoku) for construction sites, 職長 (shokuchō) for skilled trades, and 班長 (hanchō) for team leaders in factories. In some settings, the English loanword フォアマン (foaman) is used. This guide covers the most useful Japanese expressions for an English-speaking learner.
The person who oversees workers at a construction site, ensuring safety and progress.
The most common term for a foreman at a construction site. Literally 'site supervisor'. Used widely in building and civil engineering.
The foreman is giving instructions to the workers.
Refers to a foreman or charge hand in skilled trades like carpentry, plumbing, or electrical work. Often used for a leader of a small crew.
The carpentry foreman explained the next step.
Loanword from English, used in some international construction contexts or by companies with foreign ties. Not as common as native terms.
The foreman also acts as an interpreter for the foreign workers.
The person in charge of a small group of workers on a production line or in a workshop.
Common term for a team leader or foreman in factories, workshops, and assembly lines. Manages a small group (班).
The foreman dealt with the trouble on the production line.
Used in manufacturing or maintenance settings for a working foreman who also performs hands-on tasks.
The foreman is inspecting the machinery.
The member of a jury who acts as chairperson and spokesperson. Note: Japan does not have a jury system in the same way, but the lay judge system (裁判員制度) has a similar role.
In the Japanese lay judge system, the presiding judge (裁判長) leads the panel, which includes citizen judges. Not exactly a 'foreman' but closest equivalent.
The presiding judge explained the deliberation process to the lay judges.
Literal translation for 'jury foreman' used when discussing foreign jury systems. Not used in Japanese legal practice.
現場監督 is specific to construction sites and often implies a supervisory role over multiple crews. 職長 is used for a leader of a skilled trade crew (e.g., carpenters, electricians) and may be more hands-on. 班長 is a general term for a small group leader in factories or offices, not limited to manual labor.
In office settings, 'foreman' is not used. Instead, terms like 主任 (しゅにん, chief) or リーダー (りーだー, leader) are appropriate. Using 現場監督 for an office team leader would sound odd.
In American trials, the jury foreman reads the verdict.