Translation guide
The English word 'members' refers to people belonging to a group, organization, or family. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is メンバー, but other words are used depending on the context, such as formal organizations, clubs, or family.
Referring to people who belong to a team, group, or informal organization.
The most common and versatile word for 'members' in everyday contexts, such as teams, project groups, or bands. It is a loanword from English and widely understood.
The team members are all young.
A more formal term meaning 'a member' (of a group). Often used in phrases like 〜の一員 (a member of ~).
A formal term for 'members' as constituents of an organization, often used in legal or official contexts.
Referring to people who officially belong to a club, society, or institution.
Referring to people in one's family.
The most common word for 'family' as a unit, but can also refer to family members collectively.
Referring to elected officials in a parliament or congress.
Standard term for a member of a legislative assembly (e.g., Diet, parliament).
We are recruiting new members.
彼は家族の一員です。
He is a member of the family.
Fulfill one's responsibility as a member of society.
The committee has ten members.
Used for members of a formal organization like a club, society, or association. Often implies a registered or paying member.
Are you a member of this gym?
There is an event for members only.
Specifically for members of a school or university club (部活).
There are 30 members in the tennis club.
Refers to employees or members of a company. Note: this means 'company employee', not a member in the sense of a club.
Only use for company employees, not for club or group members.
He is an employee of a major company.
There are four members in my family.
Literally 'a member of the family', used to emphasize belonging.
The dog is also a member of the family.
He is a member of the Diet.
gym member (formal membership)
a member of the team (emphasizing belonging)
社員 specifically means 'company employee'. Using it for club or group members would be incorrect.