Translation guide
The English word 'member' refers to a person belonging to a group, or a part of a whole. In Japanese, the translation depends on the type of group or context. Common words include メンバー (member of a team/group), 会員 (member of an organization/club), and 一員 (member as part of a group). For body parts or structural components, different terms are used.
To refer to someone who belongs to a group, club, team, or organization.
The most common and versatile word for 'member' in casual and everyday contexts, especially for teams, bands, project groups, etc. It is a loanword from English and widely understood.
彼はサッカーチームのメンバーです。
He is a member of the soccer team.
新しいメンバーを募集しています。
We are recruiting new members.
Used for formal membership in organizations, clubs, gyms, or subscription services. It implies registration or official status.
ジムの会員になりました。
I became a member of the gym.
会員限定のサービスです。
This service is for members only.
Emphasizes being a part of a group, often used in phrases like 'as a member of society' or 'a member of the family'. It carries a sense of belonging and responsibility.
社会の一員としての責任を果たす。
Fulfill one's responsibility as a member of society.
彼は家族の一員です。
He is a member of the family.
A formal term for a constituent member of an organization, committee, or group. Often used in official or academic contexts.
委員会の構成員を選出する。
Elect the members of the committee.
To refer to a component or part of a whole, such as a structural member or a body part.
Refers to structural members in construction or engineering, like beams or columns.
この建物の部材は鉄でできている。
The structural members of this building are made of steel.
General term for parts or components of a machine or device. Not typically used for people.
Refers to limbs or body members. Used in medical or formal contexts.
To refer to an elected official in a parliament or congress.
メンバー is casual and used for teams, bands, or informal groups. 会員 implies official registration or subscription. 一員 emphasizes being part of a collective with a sense of duty or belonging.
バンドのメンバーを探している。
Looking for band members.
図書館の会員カードを作った。
I got a library membership card.
チームの一員として頑張ります。
I'll do my best as a member of the team.
While 'member' can mean a limb in English, メンバー is never used for body parts in Japanese. Use 肢体 (したい) or 手足 (てあし) instead.
このクラブの会員ですか？
Are you a member of this club?
彼女は私たちのチームの貴重なメンバーです。
She is a valuable member of our team.
We need to replace the parts of this machine.
He lost a limb in the accident.