Translation guide
In Japanese, the way you refer to a shop assistant depends on the type of store, the level of formality, and whether you are addressing them directly or talking about them. The most common general term is 店員, but in specific contexts like department stores or when speaking politely, other words are used.
A neutral, all-purpose word for a person who works in a shop, used in most everyday situations.
The standard, neutral word for a shop assistant or store clerk. Can be used for both male and female workers in any kind of shop.
Let's ask that shop assistant.
The shop assistant was very kind.
How to get a shop assistant's attention or call them over politely.
The most common and polite way to get a shop assistant's attention. It means 'excuse me' and is used in all types of stores.
Excuse me, could you show me this?
A casual way to get someone's attention, similar to 'hey' or 'excuse me'. Use only in informal settings or with younger staff.
Can sound rude if used with a harsh tone or in formal shops.
A more formal term used for staff in department stores, boutiques, or when speaking respectfully.
Adding さん makes 店員 more polite. Commonly used when addressing or referring to a shop assistant in a respectful way, especially in department stores.
Excuse me (shop assistant), do you have this in another size?
A more formal term for a salesperson or shop assistant, often used in written contexts or job titles.
Terms for assistants in particular kinds of shops, like clothing stores or electronics retailers.
Refers to a person minding a small shop, often a family-run business. Implies they are watching over the store rather than actively selling.
The old lady minding the shop was sitting there.
A somewhat dated term for a shop assistant or salesperson, often used for market stalls or street vendors. Can sound old-fashioned.
In English, you might say 'Excuse me, shop assistant,' but in Japanese, you never address someone as 店員 directly. Instead, use すみません to get their attention. Calling someone 店員 to their face can sound rude or impersonal.
When talking about a shop assistant in the third person, 店員 is neutral. When you want to show respect or speak politely, especially in a service setting, use 店員さん. This is similar to adding 'Mr./Ms.' in English but is used more broadly.
ちょっと、これいくら？
Hey, how much is this?
The sales assistant's service was excellent.
The market vendor was shouting to attract customers.