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.
Common word for amateur or layperson, often used in contrast to experts (専門家). Can imply lack of skill or knowledge.
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.
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.
I am a layperson when it comes to law.
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.
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.
It's a fact that is not well known among laypeople.
Lay believers can also participate in the training.