Translation guide
The English word "landlord" can refer to different roles depending on context. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to refer to a landlord is 大家 (おおや), which specifically means the owner of a rented property. However, in formal or legal contexts, other terms may be used. This guide covers the main ways to express "landlord" in Japanese, from everyday conversation to official documents.
To refer to the person who owns and rents out a residential property, such as an apartment or house, in casual or everyday conversation.
The standard, everyday word for a landlord of a residential property. It is neutral and widely understood.
大家さんに家賃を払った。
I paid the rent to the landlord.
うちの大家さんはとても親切だ。
Our landlord is very kind.
Literally 'house owner', this can also mean landlord, but it is slightly more formal and can refer to the owner of a house regardless of rental status. In rental contexts, it is synonymous with 大家 but less common in speech.
家主と直接交渉した。
I negotiated directly with the landlord.
To refer to a landlord in a legal, contractual, or formal setting, such as a lease agreement or official document.
The formal legal term for 'lessor' or 'landlord' in a rental contract. Used in written agreements and legal documents.
賃貸人は賃借人に通知しなければならない。
The landlord must notify the tenant.
A general term for 'lender' or 'lessor', used in contracts for both property and other items. In rental contexts, it means landlord but is less specific than 賃貸人.
To refer to the owner of a building or land, not necessarily in a rental context, but often used when discussing property ownership.
Specifically means 'landowner'. It can be used for a landlord who owns the land on which a rental property stands, but it emphasizes land ownership rather than the rental relationship.
彼はこの地域の大地主だ。
He is a major landlord in this area.
A general term for 'owner'. It can refer to a landlord in a broad sense, but it is not specific to rental relationships.
To refer to the owner of a commercial rental property, such as a shop or office.
大家 can also be used for commercial landlords, though it is more common for residential. In a business context, it is still widely understood.
店の大家と賃料の交渉をした。
I negotiated the rent with the landlord of the shop.
A loanword from English, commonly used for the owner of a commercial building. It is casual and often used in business settings.
ビルのオーナーが変わった。
The landlord of the building changed.
In spoken Japanese, it is common and polite to add さん after 大家 when referring to your landlord, even if you are not particularly close. This shows respect and is the default in conversation.
大家さんに相談してみます。
I'll try talking to the landlord.
In historical or feudal contexts, 'landlord' may refer to a 大名 (daimyo) or 領主 (ryoshu). Using 大家 would be incorrect. Always consider the historical period.
The landlord's consent is required.
Please contact the owner of the building.