Translation guide
The concept of seniority in Japanese is expressed through specific vocabulary related to age, rank, and experience within a group. It is deeply embedded in social hierarchy and often conveyed through titles, verb forms, and indirect expressions rather than a single word.
Referring to higher rank or longer service in a company, school, or other group.
Refers to the system of seniority-based promotion or reward, often used in compounds like 年功序列 (seniority system).
日本の会社では年功序列がまだ残っている。
In Japanese companies, the seniority system still remains.
A person who is senior to you in a group, such as a workplace or school. Used as a title or term of address.
先輩に仕事を教えてもらった。
I was taught the job by a senior colleague.
Literally 'older in age', but can imply seniority in informal contexts.
彼は私より年上だから、敬語を使う。
He is older than me, so I use polite language.
A superior or boss, emphasizing rank rather than age. Somewhat formal.
上役の指示に従わなければならない。
You must follow the instructions of your superiors.
Describing someone who is older or has more experience, often in social or educational settings.
Being older or senior in age, often used in formal contexts like '年長者' (senior person).
年長者の意見を尊重する。
Respect the opinions of senior members.
A person of higher status or older age, often used when discussing hierarchy and politeness.
Literally 'has years of seasoning', meaning someone is experienced or a veteran. Often used for craftsmen or long-time workers.
あの職人は年季が入っている。
That craftsman has years of experience.
Referring to the concept or practice of prioritizing seniority in decision-making or advancement.
The seniority-based system, especially in employment. A set phrase.
年功序列の制度は徐々に変わってきている。
The seniority system is gradually changing.
Seniority in terms of appointment or tenure, often used in official contexts like '先任者' (predecessor or senior appointee).
Adjectival form meaning 'seniority-based', used in business or HR contexts.
年功序列型の賃金体系を見直す。
Review the seniority-based wage system.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'seniority'. The closest general term is 年功, but it is often used in compounds. In many cases, you should use specific words like 先輩 or 年上 depending on context.
In Japanese, seniority is often expressed through titles like 先輩, 上司 (boss), or 先生 (teacher/master). Using these titles correctly is more natural than trying to translate 'seniority' directly.
You should use polite language with superiors.
先任者が新しいメンバーを指導する。
The senior member trains the new members.