Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'salesman' is expressed through various terms that differ by industry, formality, and the nature of the sales role. The most common and neutral term is 営業マン, but other words like セールスマン, 販売員, and 外交員 are used in specific contexts. This guide helps learners choose the right word based on the situation.
salesman (general company employee)
salesman (retail)
To refer to a person whose job is to sell products or services, typically as a company employee, in a general business context.
The most common and neutral term for a salesman in a company. It implies a white-collar sales role, often involving client visits and negotiations. Can be used for both men and women, though 営業ウーマン or 営業パーソン are sometimes used for women.
He is a salesman at a major trading company.
A formal term for a salesman who travels to meet clients, often used in insurance or financial industries. It emphasizes the outside sales aspect.
To refer to someone who sells products in a shop or store, assisting customers directly.
A general term for a salesperson in a retail setting. It is neutral and can be used for both men and women.
I asked the salesperson about the product.
A more general term for a store clerk or shop assistant. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and can refer to any staff member in a store, not exclusively those focused on sales.
To refer to a salesman with a specific job title, often in a corporate hierarchy.
Literally 'person in charge of sales'. It is a common job title and can be used to refer to someone's role without specifying gender.
Let me introduce Mr. Tanaka, our sales representative.
A term for a sales employee, emphasizing their status as a company employee. It is slightly more formal than 営業マン.
営業マン is the standard term for a company salesman in Japan, often implying a salaried employee who manages client relationships. セールスマン is more associated with direct selling, sometimes door-to-door, and can sound a bit dated or informal. In modern business contexts, 営業マン is preferred.
While 営業マン is widely used for both men and women, some prefer gender-neutral terms like 営業パーソン or 営業担当. In formal writing or job titles, 営業担当 is common.
I want to make use of my experience as a salesman.
A loanword from English, often used for door-to-door salesmen or those selling directly to consumers. It can carry a slightly more informal or old-fashioned nuance compared to 営業マン.
A salesman came to the house.
I work as an insurance salesman.
店員に在庫を確認してもらった。
I had the salesperson check the stock.
Sales employees must meet their targets every month.