Translation guide
This English phrase describes a person who holds two or more positions simultaneously, often in an organization. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with the suffix 〜兼任 (けんにん) or the verb 兼ねる (かねる). The choice depends on formality and whether it appears in titles, descriptions, or speech.
To state that someone holds an extra role or title in addition to their main one, typically in professional or organizational contexts.
The most standard and neutral way to say someone holds an additional post. The pattern is [Position A] と [Position B] を兼任している or [Position B] を兼任している when the main position is understood.
彼は社長と会長を兼任している。
He holds the additional post of chairman while serving as president.
田中さんは営業部長を兼任しています。
Mr. Tanaka also holds the post of sales department manager.
Noun meaning 'concurrent post' or 'serving concurrently'. Often used in titles or formal descriptions, e.g., 兼任講師 (part-time lecturer).
Verb meaning 'to serve concurrently as'. Often used in the form 〜を兼ねる. Slightly more formal or literary than 兼任する.
Used to describe a situation where someone holds an additional post, often in explanatory or background contexts.
彼は編集長の兼任で、雑誌の運営も行っている。
He also runs the magazine, holding the additional post of editor-in-chief.
In casual conversation, Japanese often omits the fact of holding an additional post if it's obvious from context. Instead, simply listing titles or using も may suffice.
彼、部長もやってるんだよ。
He's also the department head, you know.
Both mean holding multiple positions, but 兼任 is more common for titles and roles, while 兼務 is often used for duties or tasks within an organization. 兼任 is the safer choice for 'holding the additional post of'.
彼は経理と総務を兼務している。
He handles both accounting and general affairs.
Do not translate 'holding the additional post of' word-for-word as 追加のポストを持っている. This sounds unnatural. Use 兼任 or 兼ねる instead.
彼は教授と学部長の兼任です。
He holds the concurrent posts of professor and dean.
The prime minister also serves as foreign minister.