Translation guide
In Japanese schools, the teacher responsible for a specific class or homeroom, handling administrative and pastoral duties. The term varies by school level and context.
The teacher in charge of a specific class, handling attendance, guidance, and communication with parents.
The most common and general term for a teacher in charge of a class. Used across all school levels.
Mr. Tanaka is my form teacher.
Please consult your form teacher.
A more explicit phrase meaning 'the teacher in charge'. Often used when clarifying or being polite.
Who is your form teacher?
Literally 'class homeroom teacher'. Used in contexts where multiple teachers share responsibilities.
The form teacher takes attendance every morning.
In Japanese elementary and middle schools, the teacher who stays with the same class for most subjects.
Formal term used in educational contexts, emphasizing the class unit. More common in written or official documents.
The form teacher is responsible for guiding the students.
In high school, the teacher who manages a homeroom class but may not teach all subjects.
Specifically refers to the homeroom teacher in a high school setting. 'HR担任' is a common abbreviation.
The homeroom teacher provides career guidance.
When referring to a specific form teacher, it's common to use their name followed by '先生' (sensei). For example, '田中先生' (Tanaka-sensei). This is polite and natural.
担任 (tannin) specifically means the teacher in charge of a class (homeroom/form teacher). 担当 (tantou) means 'in charge of' a subject or task, e.g., 数学担当 (suugaku tantou) = math teacher. Do not confuse them.