Learning how to say professions in different languages opens up a whole new world of communication and cultural understanding. In this guide, we will explore the Japanese words for “lawyer” and “doctor,” focusing on both formal and informal ways to express these professions. While regional variations exist, we will primarily focus on the standard Japanese terms used nationwide. Let’s dive in and discover how to say a lawyer and a doctor in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say a Lawyer and a Doctor in Japanese
When it comes to formal language in Japanese, it is crucial to use respectful honorifics to show politeness and courtesy. Here are the formal ways to say “lawyer” and “doctor” in Japanese:
Lawyer: 弁護士 (Bengoshi)
In Japanese, the formal term for a lawyer is “弁護士” (Bengoshi). This word consists of three kanji characters: 弁 (ben), 護 (go), and 士 (shi). These characters represent the concept of advocacy and expertise in legal matters.
Example: 彼は弁護士です。(Kare wa bengoshi desu.) – He is a lawyer.
Doctor: 医者 (Isha)
The formal term for a doctor in Japanese is “医者” (Isha). This word represents the medical profession and carries a sense of expertise in the field of healthcare.
Example: 私の父は医者です。(Watashi no chichi wa isha desu.) – My father is a doctor.
Informal Ways to Say a Lawyer and a Doctor in Japanese
In informal settings or when speaking to friends, family, or peers, Japanese often uses shorter, more casual expressions to refer to professions. Let’s explore the informal ways to say “lawyer” and “doctor” in Japanese:
Lawyer: 弁護士さん (Bengoshi-san)
To add a friendly and informal tone, you can use the honorific suffix “さん” (san) after the word “弁護士” (bengoshi) to refer to a lawyer in an informal context.
Example: あの人は弁護士さんだよ。(Ano hito wa bengoshi-san da yo.) – That person is a lawyer.
Doctor: 医者さん (Isha-san)
Similar to referring to a lawyer informally, you can add the honorific “さん” (san) after “医者” (isha) to address a doctor in a more relaxed and friendly manner.
Example: おばあちゃんは医者さんです。(Obaachan wa isha-san desu.) – Grandma is a doctor.
Regional Variations
While the formal and informal terms mentioned above are widely used across Japan, it’s essential to note that certain regions may have their own regional variations for referring to a lawyer or a doctor. These regional words are often influenced by local dialects and customs. Here are a few examples:
Kyoto Dialect:
- Lawyer: じゃばらん (Jabaran)
- Doctor: おんばさん (Onba-san)
Kagoshima Dialect:
- Lawyer: べんぎょーさん (Bengyō-san)
- Doctor: くんびょーさん (Kunbyō-san)
Okinawa Dialect:
Note: Okinawan dialects have numerous variations across the islands, but here are a few examples.
- Lawyer: しっぱー (Shippā)
- Doctor: いーしちょー (Īshichō)
While it’s interesting to explore regional variations, it’s important to keep in mind that using the standard, nationwide terms would be easily understood by all Japanese speakers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have covered the formal and informal ways to say “lawyer” and “doctor” in Japanese. Remember to use the formal terms “弁護士” (Bengoshi) and “医者” (Isha) when speaking in formal contexts, while the informal versions “弁護士さん” (Bengoshi-san) and “医者さん” (Isha-san) can be used to address these professions in more casual situations. Additionally, we explored a few regional variations that may exist, although it’s advisable to stick to the standard terms unless you are interacting with specific local dialects. Keep practicing, and enjoy expanding your Japanese vocabulary!
