Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to someone as 'this person' depends heavily on context, politeness, and the relationship between speaker and listener. Direct translation is often unnatural; instead, use names, titles, or omit the subject entirely.
To politely or neutrally refer to a person who is physically present or has just been introduced, similar to 'this gentleman/lady' or 'this person here'.
Polite and respectful way to say 'this person'. Used in formal situations or when showing respect.
この方は私の上司です。
This person is my boss.
Neutral way to say 'this person'. Can be slightly blunt or casual depending on context. Avoid using for superiors.
Can sound impolite if used to refer to someone of higher status. Use この方 instead.
この人は誰ですか？
Who is this person?
Instead of 'this person', use the person's name with an appropriate title (さん, 様, 先生, etc.). This is often more natural and polite.
田中さんは私の友達です。
This person (Tanaka) is my friend.
To refer to a person previously mentioned or understood from context, like 'this person' in a story or explanation.
Used in written or formal contexts to refer to a person in a narrative, article, or report. More objective than この人.
この人物は事件の鍵を握っている。
This person holds the key to the case.
Common in spoken narratives or casual writing. Can be used when the person's identity is known but not named.
この人はいつも遅刻するんだよね。
This person is always late, you know.
To refer to oneself as 'this person' in a humble or self-deprecating manner, often in formal or literary contexts.
Used to emphasize oneself, often in a humble or dramatic way. Can sound arrogant if overused.
この私がそんなことをするはずがない。
There's no way this person (I) would do such a thing.
Masculine, humble or self-referential. Used by males in casual or introspective speech.
この僕が言うのもなんだけど、それは無理だよ。
It's not my place to say, but that's impossible.
To identify or single out a person among others, like 'this guy/girl' in casual conversation.
Very casual and can be rude. Used among close friends or when speaking about someone in a derogatory way.
Avoid using in polite or formal settings. Can be offensive.
こいつ、また遅刻かよ。
This guy is late again.
Used for children or young women in a familiar or affectionate way. Can be condescending if used for adults.
この子、すごくかわいいね。
This girl is really cute.
English speakers often overuse 'この人' when they mean 'this person'. In Japanese, it's more natural to use the person's name, title, or simply omit the subject if it's clear from context. Using 'この人' can sound blunt or rude, especially when the person is present.
If the person has already been introduced or is obvious from context, Japanese often drops the subject entirely. For example, instead of 'This person is my friend', you can just say '友達です' (is my friend) if the context is clear.