Translation guide
Used in formal or legal contexts to refer back to a previously mentioned person. In natural Japanese, this is usually handled by pronouns, names, or omission, not a direct equivalent.
In legal, official, or formal documents, to refer to a person already mentioned.
Standard formal/legal term meaning 'that person' or 'the said person'. Used in documents and official statements.
The said person was questioned as a suspect.
Very formal, often used in legal or bureaucratic contexts. 'The relevant person'.
The identity of the said person has not been confirmed.
Literary/formal term meaning 'the same person'. Used in bibliographies or formal lists.
The said person subsequently disappeared.
In normal speech, 'said person' sounds stilted. Use natural alternatives.
In Japanese, once a person is introduced, you can refer to them by name + honorific (さん, 様, etc.) or by their title/role.
The said person (Tanaka) came here yesterday.
If the person is clear from context, Japanese often drops the subject entirely.
The said person came here yesterday. (context makes it clear who)
Simple 'that person', but can sound a bit blunt or distancing. Use with care.
Can be rude if the person is present or if you should use their name.
Phrases like 'said person' are almost never used in spoken Japanese. Using その者 or 当該人物 in casual chat will sound unnatural and overly formal. Stick to names, titles, or omission.
In formal writing, その者 is the most common equivalent. In legal documents, 当該人物 is precise. In everyday speech, use the person's name or その人 if necessary.
その人は誰ですか？
Who is that person?