Translation guide
A switchman is a railway worker who operates track switches to direct trains onto different tracks. In Japanese, this role is typically expressed with specific job titles or descriptive phrases.
The person responsible for changing the points/turnouts on a railway to route trains.
The standard Japanese term for a switchman. Used in formal and technical contexts.
彼は長年、転轍手として働いている。
He has been working as a switchman for many years.
Loanword from English 'pointsman'. Common in casual or modern contexts, especially in non-JR railways.
A more descriptive term meaning 'switch machine operator'. Used in manuals or official documents.
転轍機操作員は定期的に訓練を受ける。
Switch machine operators receive regular training.
ポイントマンが信号を確認してからポイントを切り替えた。
The switchman checked the signal and then changed the points.