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.
members (of a team/group)
members (of a club/society)
family members
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).
メンバー is the most general and casual. 会員 implies formal membership with registration or fees. 一員 is more abstract and formal, often used in phrases like 〜の一員.
circle members (casual group)
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.