Translation guide
The English phrase 'right hand' can refer to the body part, a direction or side, or a trusted assistant. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to the right hand as a physical body part.
Indicating the right-hand side or direction.
Means 'right side'. Commonly used for location or direction.
Referring to a person who is a close, indispensable helper.
Literally 'right arm', this is the closest equivalent to 'right-hand man/woman'. Used for a trusted, capable assistant.
Do not translate 'right hand' as 右手 when referring to a person. Use 右腕 or 片腕 instead. 右手 only means the physical hand.
He is my right hand. (incorrect, sounds like 'he is my physical right hand')
I write with my right hand.
Please raise your right hand.
Please stand on the right-hand side.
Keep to the right (traffic).
Simply 'right'. Can be used in many contexts, but may be ambiguous without context.
Please turn right.
Literally 'of the right hand', used to describe something on the right-hand side, often in formal or written contexts.
Please enter through the door on your right.
He is the president's right-hand man.
She works as my right-hand woman.
Literally 'one arm', meaning an indispensable assistant. Slightly less common than 右腕 but similar in meaning.
He is my right-hand man.
Means 'confidant' or 'trusted aide'. More formal and implies deep trust, often used in political or business contexts.
He is a trusted aide of the president.