Translation guide
The English word "supervisor" can refer to a range of roles from a workplace manager to an academic advisor. In Japanese, the appropriate term depends heavily on the context—whether it's a company, school, part-time job, or research setting. Direct translations exist but are often too formal or specific; learners should choose based on the relationship and setting.
A person who oversees your work in a company or organization, typically your direct boss.
The most common and neutral term for one's direct superior in a workplace. Can be used for any level of management above you.
My new supervisor is very kind.
Please report to your supervisor.
Refers to a senior colleague who may guide or mentor you, but not necessarily your official boss. Common in Japanese workplace culture.
My senior colleague (supervisor figure) taught me how to do the work.
Used for a supervisor in specific fields like sports, film, or construction, implying direct oversight and direction.
The site supervisor checked the safety.
A professor who supervises your research, thesis, or graduate studies.
The formal term for an academic supervisor or advisor at a university, especially for research students.
I showed the draft of my thesis to my supervisor.
A general respectful term for a teacher or professor. Often used by students to refer to their academic supervisor in conversation.
The person in charge at a part-time job, such as a restaurant or retail store.
A person overseeing workers on a production line or technical crew.
The English word "supervisor" is often used loosely for anyone who oversees your work. In Japanese, calling someone スーパーバイザー (supervisor in katakana) is rare and sounds like a specific job title in certain industries (e.g., retail). Stick to the context-appropriate terms above.
上司 is your hierarchical superior, while 先輩 is a senior colleague who may not have formal authority over you. In many Japanese workplaces, a 先輩 acts as a mentor and informal supervisor, but for official matters, use 上司.
先生が研究の方向性についてアドバイスをくれた。
My supervisor gave me advice on the direction of my research.
今日の責任者は誰ですか？
Who is the supervisor today?
職長が新しい作業員に指示を出した。
The supervisor gave instructions to the new workers.