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.
彼は来なかった。だから、待たなかった。
He didn't come. So, I didn't wait for him.
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.
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.