Translation guide
How to refer to a person who plays shogi (Japanese chess), from casual to formal contexts.
shogi player (general)
professional shogi player
Often prefixed with プロ (pro) for clarity.
The most common, neutral way to say 'shogi player' in Japanese.
Standard term for a shogi player, literally 'shogi pointer'. Used for anyone who plays shogi, from amateurs to professionals.
He is a shogi player.
Specifically refers to a professional shogi player, someone who holds a professional rank and competes in official tournaments.
Loanword from English, sometimes used in casual or international contexts, but less natural than 将棋指し.
Emphasizing that someone plays shogi as a hobby, not professionally.
Specifically a professional, ranked player in the shogi world.
Common term for a professional shogi player. プロ (professional) + 棋士 (shogi player).
Referring to a highly skilled shogi player, often with a title or high rank.
将棋指し (shōgi-sashi) is the general term for anyone who plays shogi, while 棋士 (kishi) specifically means a professional player. Using 棋士 for an amateur can sound odd or overly formal.
He is a professional shogi player.
He is an enthusiastic shogi player.
A café where shogi players gather.
Explicitly 'amateur shogi player', using 棋士 loosely. Note that 棋士 alone usually implies professional.
A tournament for amateur shogi players was held.
He is aiming to become a professional shogi player.
Female professional shogi player. The women's professional system is separate from the main (male-dominated) professional league.
She is a famous female professional shogi player.
Title for the top professional shogi player, the Meijin. Can also be used more loosely to mean 'master' or 'expert'.
He is a master of shogi.
A person with a high dan rank (e.g., 5-dan and above). Indicates strong amateur or professional.
Games between high-ranked players are worth watching.
He is a shogi player, but not a professional.