Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a staff member depends on the context: whether they are part of your own group, a specific role, or a general employee. The most common and neutral term is スタッフ, but more formal or role-specific words exist.
To refer to a staff member in a general sense, such as in a store, event, or team.
A loanword from English, widely used for staff in shops, events, restaurants, and casual workplaces. It is neutral and safe in most situations.
The staff at that store are very kind.
We are recruiting staff for the event.
Specifically a shop assistant or store clerk. Use this when referring to someone working in a retail setting.
I'll ask a staff member about the stock.
A formal term for employee, often used in business contexts or official documents. It can refer to any employee of a company.
Our company has 500 employees.
To refer to a staff member of your own company or group when speaking to outsiders.
Refers to an employee of a company, especially when talking about your own company's staff to someone outside. It implies a regular, full-time employee.
Our staff member will assist you.
Used for staff in non-commercial organizations like schools, government offices, or hospitals. It emphasizes the role within an institution.
To specify a staff member by their function or title.
Means 'person in charge' or 'the staff member responsible'. Very useful when you need to refer to the specific person handling a matter.
I'll call the staff member in charge.
A staff member assigned to a specific duty, often at a counter or window. Common in stations, banks, and public offices.
スタッフ is a casual, all-purpose term for staff, often used in service industries. 社員 specifically refers to employees of a company, especially when viewed as members of the organization. 従業員 is a more formal and legal term for employees, used in contracts and official contexts.
The cafe staff are all young.
He is an employee of a major corporation.
Protect the rights of employees.
The direct translation 'スタッフメンバー' is not natural Japanese. Use スタッフ alone or a context-appropriate term like 社員 or 担当者.
市役所の職員に相談してください。
Please consult a staff member at the city hall.
I asked a station staff member for directions.