Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a 'person of importance' depends heavily on context, relationship, and formality. The most common and versatile term is お偉いさん (oerai-san), but many other expressions exist for specific situations like VIPs, dignitaries, or influential figures.
To refer to someone of higher status or importance in a general, often slightly casual or respectful way.
A common, slightly colloquial term for a person of high rank or importance. It carries a nuance of respect mixed with a bit of distance or irony. Often used in workplace or social settings.
An important person is coming today, so everyone is nervous.
A neutral, formal term meaning 'important person' or 'key figure'. Suitable for news, reports, or serious contexts.
He is a key person in this project.
Literally 'big thing', used to describe a big shot, heavyweight, or person of great influence or talent. Often used in politics, business, or entertainment.
He is a big shot in the political world.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'important person' or 'superior'. It can sound a bit blunt or childish if used inappropriately. More common in explanations or when speaking to children.
Go greet the important person.
To refer to a person of high status in formal events, ceremonies, or official contexts.
The English loanword 'VIP' is widely understood and used in Japanese, especially in business, events, and hospitality.
I will guide you to the VIP room.
A formal term for a VIP, dignitary, or person of importance, often used in news or security contexts (e.g., '要人警護' = VIP protection).
Security was tightened in preparation for the VIP's visit.
A very formal term for an honored guest or dignitary, often used in official ceremonies or state events.
To emphasize someone's power, influence, or status in a specific field.
An influential person, often in politics, business, or local communities. Neutral to formal.
Local influential figures gathered and held a meeting.
A person of real ability or influence, often behind the scenes. Implies actual power rather than just a title.
A leading figure, authority, or heavyweight in a field. Often used for respected veterans in academia, arts, or politics.
To refer to someone of higher rank in a company or organization.
The standard term for one's direct superior or boss at work. Neutral and widely used.
My new boss is very strict.
A slightly older term for a superior or higher-up, often used in traditional company settings. Can sound a bit dated.
Refers to a person of higher status, seniority, or age in a hierarchical relationship. Not limited to workplace; can be used for family or social contexts.
Directly translating 'person of importance' as 重要性の人 (jūyōsei no hito) is unnatural. Use context-appropriate terms like お偉いさん, 重要人物, or 有力者 instead.
お偉いさん (oerai-san) is a set phrase with a slightly humorous or respectful tone, while 偉い人 (erai hito) is a plain description that can sound naive or overly direct. In most casual situations, お偉いさん is safer.
Ambassadors from various countries were seated in the VIP section.
彼は会社の実力者として知られている。
He is known as a powerful figure in the company.
彼は業界の重鎮として尊敬されている。
He is respected as a leading figure in the industry.
上役の機嫌を損ねないように気をつけている。
I'm careful not to upset my superiors.
You should use polite language with people of higher status.