Translation guide
The English word 'official' can refer to a person in a position of authority, something formally authorized, or an announcement that is confirmed. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a person who holds a position of authority in an organization or government.
General term for a government official or bureaucrat. Neutral and widely used.
He is a government official.
Staff member or official within an organization, such as a school or company. Broader than 役人.
Person in charge or responsible official for a specific matter. Common in business contexts.
High-ranking government official or bureaucrat, often with a nuance of elite career officials. Can carry a slightly negative connotation of bureaucracy.
Describing something that is formally recognized, authorized, or sanctioned by an authority.
Official, formal, or authorized. Used for statements, announcements, websites, etc.
Please wait for the official announcement.
Officially recognized or certified, often used for records, qualifications, or authorized products.
Formal, official, proper. Emphasizes adherence to proper procedure or formality.
Referring to information that has been officially confirmed or released.
公式 (こうしき) means 'official' in the sense of being publicly authorized or recognized by an organization. 正式 (せいしき) means 'formal' or 'proper', emphasizing correct procedure. For 'official website', use 公式サイト, not 正式サイト.
The loanword オフィシャル is sometimes used for 'official' as an adjective (e.g., オフィシャルサイト), but it is not used to refer to a person in authority. Use 役人 or 職員 instead.
市役所の職員に聞いてください。
Please ask a city hall official.
担当者をお呼びします。
I'll call the person in charge.
官僚の決定に批判が集まった。
Criticism focused on the bureaucrats' decision.
You can check it on the official website.
これは公認記録です。
This is an official record.
正式な書類が必要です。
Official documents are required.