Translation guide
The concept of a government position or role, typically one that is elected or appointed. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific terms depending on the type of office, and often involves the idea of 'public duty' or 'official position'.
To refer to a position in government that is obtained through election or appointment, such as mayor, governor, or member of parliament.
The most direct and common translation for 'public office' as a general concept. It refers to any public position or office in government.
He holds public office.
The Public Offices Election Law was revised.
Refers specifically to a government post or bureaucratic office, often in the civil service. More formal and administrative than 公職.
He resigned from public office.
Literally 'public position', used to describe a role in public service. Slightly less common than 公職 but still natural.
He aims to hold public office.
To refer to the physical location or building where a public official works.
General term for a government office or public building, such as a city hall or ward office.
He works at a public office.
Refers to a government agency or ministry building. More formal and often used for central government offices.
A formal term for a public office or government building, often used in legal contexts.
To refer to the period during which a person holds a public office.
To express the act of campaigning for or seeking election to a public office.
公職 (こうしょく) is the broad term for any public office, including elected positions. 官職 (かんしょく) specifically refers to bureaucratic or civil service posts. Use 公職 when talking about politicians or general public roles, and 官職 for administrative government jobs.
Do not translate 'public office' as パブリックオフィス or 公共のオフィス. These sound unnatural. Use the terms provided above depending on context.
I went to the public office to get a certificate of residence.
官庁街を歩いた。
I walked through the government office district.
I completed the procedure at the public office.
The term of office has expired.