Translation guide
In Japanese, the pronoun 'him' is usually omitted when clear from context. When needed, use names, titles, or demonstratives like 彼 (かれ). Direct translation with 彼 is often unnatural or overly emphatic.
The learner wants to refer to a specific male person (he/him) in a sentence.
Japanese often drops pronouns when the referent is clear from context. This is the most natural choice in conversation.
田中さんに会った。とても元気だった。
I met Tanaka. He was very energetic.
He didn't come. So, I didn't wait for him.
The standard pronoun for 'he/him'. Use sparingly; it can sound like 'boyfriend' or overly emphatic. Common in written language or when the person is not present.
彼に聞いてみます。
I'll ask him.
彼のことが好きです。
I like him.
Using the person's name + さん (or other title) is polite and natural, especially when the referent might not be clear.
田中さんにプレゼントをあげた。
I gave a present to him (Tanaka).
先生に質問した。
I asked the teacher (him).
Literally 'that person'. Used for 'him' when pointing out someone or referring to a known male person in a slightly distant way.
あの人に道を聞いた。
I asked him for directions.
Means 'boyfriend'. Only use when 'him' refers to a romantic partner.
彼氏と映画を見た。
I watched a movie with him (my boyfriend).
Using 彼 (かれ) in every sentence where English uses 'him' sounds unnatural. Japanese prefers omission or names. 彼 can also imply 'boyfriend', so be careful in romantic contexts.
彼は私の彼です。
He is my boyfriend.
彼 is a direct pronoun, while あの人 is more like 'that person'. あの人 can sound slightly distant or impersonal, but is common in casual speech when the person is not close.