Translation guide
A person or company that may become a client in the future. Japanese uses different terms depending on formality, sales context, and whether the relationship is new or under negotiation.
A potential customer or client in a business setting.
Standard business term for a prospective client or lead. Neutral and widely used in sales and marketing.
新規の見込み客をリストアップする。
We compile a list of new prospective clients.
Literally 'latent customer'. Often used in marketing contexts to refer to people who have a need but haven't yet engaged.
潜在顧客を開拓する戦略を練る。
We devise a strategy to cultivate prospective clients.
Literally 'future customer'. A straightforward, slightly less technical phrase.
彼は将来の顧客になり得る。
He could become a prospective client.
A sales lead that has been identified and is being pursued.
Common in sales contexts, often used for companies or organizations that are potential clients.
見込み先にアプローチする。
We approach prospective clients.
Loanword from English 'lead'. Used in modern sales and marketing, especially in tech or startup environments.
展示会で多くのリードを獲得した。
We got many prospective clients (leads) at the trade show.
A prospective client in formal documents, proposals, or polite speech.
Polite expression meaning 'candidate business partner'. Suitable for formal correspondence.
お取引先候補としてご検討いただければ幸いです。
We would be grateful if you would consider us as a prospective client.
Literally 'client candidate'. Neutral formality, used in written reports or plans.
顧客候補リストを作成する。
Create a list of prospective clients.
A prospective client with no prior relationship, often approached cold.
Refers to a target for new business development. Implies proactive outreach.
新規開拓先に電話をかける。
We call prospective clients for new business.
Slangy abbreviation of 'appointment target'. Used in sales teams for a prospect you plan to visit.
今日のアポ先は3件だ。
We have three prospective clients to visit today.
The phrase 'prospective client' does not have a single direct equivalent. Avoid word-for-word translations like 将来のクライアント, which sounds unnatural.
見込み客 is a lead that has shown some interest or been identified, while 潜在顧客 is a broader market segment that may not yet be aware of your product.