Translation guide
The English word "minister" has two main meanings: a government official and a religious leader. In Japanese, these are expressed with completely different words. This guide helps you choose the right term based on context.
A high-ranking member of a government, typically in charge of a department.
The standard term for a cabinet minister in Japan. Used for heads of ministries like the Minister of Finance or Minister of Foreign Affairs.
He was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Refers to a cabinet minister collectively or as a member of the cabinet. Often used in news reports.
A suffix attached to the portfolio name to form the title of a minister, e.g., 外相 (Foreign Minister). Used in formal or abbreviated contexts.
A person authorized to conduct religious worship, especially in Protestant churches.
Specifically a Protestant minister or pastor. This is the most common term for a Christian minister in Japan.
I listened to the minister's sermon at church on Sunday.
She is studying at a seminary to become a minister.
A general term for clergy or a religious minister, not limited to Christianity. Can refer to priests, ministers, etc.
A missionary or evangelist; sometimes used for a minister focused on preaching and outreach.
A diplomatic agent ranking below an ambassador.
A diplomatic minister, specifically a minister plenipotentiary. Used in historical or formal diplomatic contexts.
He was posted to Tokyo as minister to Japan.
大臣 (daijin) is only for government ministers. Using it for a church minister would be confusing. Similarly, 牧師 (bokushi) is only for Protestant Christian ministers. For Catholic priests, use 神父 (shinpu).
大臣 refers to an individual minister, while 閣僚 is a collective term for cabinet members. In news, you'll often see 閣僚 when referring to the cabinet as a group.
All cabinet ministers resigned.
The prime minister appointed a new finance minister.
Our minister gave a moving sermon today.
The minister announced the new policy at a press conference.
首相は新しい閣僚を発表した。
The prime minister announced the new cabinet ministers.
The Foreign Minister is scheduled to visit the U.S. next month.
彼は村の聖職者として尊敬されている。
He is respected as the minister of the village.
伝道師が街角で聖書の言葉を伝えていた。
The minister was sharing Bible verses on the street corner.