Translation guide
The English word 'pedestrian' can be a noun meaning a person walking, or an adjective meaning ordinary or dull. This guide focuses on the noun sense, which is the most common and useful for learners.
Referring to someone who is walking, especially in contrast to vehicles or as a road user.
The standard, neutral term for a pedestrian. Used in traffic contexts, signs, and formal writing.
歩行者は横断歩道を渡ってください。
Pedestrians should cross at the crosswalk.
この道路は歩行者専用です。
This road is for pedestrians only.
A more descriptive, everyday way to say 'a person who is walking'. Common in casual conversation.
あそこに歩いている人がいる。
There's a pedestrian over there.
The katakana word ペデストリアン is rarely used and may not be understood. Stick to 歩行者 or descriptive phrases.
歩行者天国
pedestrian zone (literally 'pedestrian paradise')
Refers to a passerby or someone walking on the street, often in the context of being a witness or part of a crowd. Not specifically a 'pedestrian' in traffic terms.
通行人が事故を目撃した。
A pedestrian witnessed the accident.