参謀
Meanings
1
staff officer; military staff
Military term for an officer who assists a commander with planning and operations. Also used in historical contexts.
He drew up the operation plan as a staff officer of the regiment.
2
adviser; counselor; strategist
Extended use for a person who gives strategic advice or devises plans in non-military contexts, such as politics, business, or personal matters.
The president trusts him as a management adviser.
A veteran lawmaker served as the strategist in the election campaign.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉の参謀を務めるto serve as someone's staff officer/adviser
He has served as the president's chief adviser for many years.
- 〈人〉の参謀になるto become someone's strategist/adviser
She became the candidate's chief strategist during the election campaign.
- 参謀として〈人〉を支えるto support someone in the role of adviser/strategist
He supported the manager as his strategic adviser.