Translation guide
A non-expert or someone without specialized knowledge in a particular field. In Japanese, this is expressed through various terms depending on context, such as general public, amateur, or outsider.
Referring to someone who is not a specialist in a given field, often used in contrast to professionals or experts.
Referring to ordinary people as opposed to specialists, often in contexts like medicine, law, or science communication.
Referring to someone who is not a member of the clergy or a religious order.
Specifically means 'layperson' in a religious context, i.e., a member of the laity. Used in Christian contexts.
彼は平信徒として教会で奉仕している。
He serves in the church as a layperson.
素人 emphasizes lack of skill or expertise in a specific area, while 一般人 simply means an ordinary person without special status. Use 素人 when contrasting with professionals, and 一般人 when contrasting with a specific group like experts or celebrities.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'layperson'. Choose the term based on context: 素人 for amateur, 一般人 for general public, and religious terms only in religious contexts.
Common word for amateur or layperson, often used in contrast to experts (専門家). Can imply lack of skill or knowledge.
素人には難しい専門用語だ。
It's technical jargon that's difficult for a layperson.
Literally 'a person who is not an expert'. A clear and neutral way to describe a layperson.
専門家ではない人にもわかるように説明してください。
Please explain it so that even a layperson can understand.
Literally 'outsider to the gate', meaning someone outside a particular field. Somewhat formal and less common in casual speech.
私は法律の門外漢です。
I am a layperson when it comes to law.
Means 'ordinary person' or 'general public'. Commonly used when contrasting with experts or celebrities.
この医学書は一般人向けに書かれている。
This medical book is written for laypeople.
Similar to 一般人, meaning 'ordinary person'. Slightly more conversational.
一般の人にはあまり知られていない事実だ。
It's a fact that is not well known among laypeople.
Buddhist term for a layperson, as opposed to a monk or nun. Not used outside religious contexts.
在家の信者も修行に参加できる。
Lay believers can also participate in the training.