Learning how to say “interview” in Japanese can be a valuable skill, whether you are traveling to Japan for a job opportunity, interested in Japanese language and culture, or simply expanding your language proficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover both the formal and informal ways to express “interview” in Japanese, providing you with numerous tips, examples, and even insights into regional variations. So, let’s dive in and start this linguistic journey!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Interview”
When it comes to formal situations, such as job interviews or official meetings, it’s important to use polite and respectful language. Here are the formal expressions for “interview” in Japanese:
面接 (めんせつ)
“面接” (めんせつ) is the most commonly used term for a formal interview in Japanese. It is a noun that directly translates to “interview” in English. This word encompasses both job interviews and formal meetings where individuals are questioned or evaluated.
Informal Ways to Say “Interview”
If you’re looking for a more casual way to discuss interviews, for example, when chatting with friends or colleagues, here are some informal alternatives:
- インタビュー (いんたびゅー) – This term is borrowed from English and means “interview” as well. It is commonly used in casual conversations or when referring to interviews conducted by media outlets.
- 面談 (めんだん) – This word conveys the idea of a formal meeting or dialogue and is often used to describe interviews in non-professional contexts, such as school or counseling sessions.
- 会談 (かいだん) – Similar to “面談,” this word also refers to a formal meeting or discussion, but it has a broader usage. It can be used to describe negotiations, diplomatic talks, or any form of an official conversation.
Regional Variations
Japanese, like any language, exhibits certain regional variations. However, when it comes to the term “interview,” there are no significant regional differences. The expressions mentioned above are universally understood and used throughout Japan.
Tips for Using “Interview” in Japanese
Now that we’ve explored the various ways to say “interview” in Japanese, let’s delve into some practical tips to help you use these expressions effectively:
1. Be cautious with informal expressions
While informal terms like “インタビュー,” “面談,” and “会談” are commonly used, they might not always convey the same level of formality as the word “面接.” It’s essential to gauge the context and the level of politeness required before opting for informal alternatives.
2. Understand appropriate situations
Using the right term for “interview” depends on the situation. “面接” is the most appropriate word for job interviews or formal evaluations. On the other hand, if you are referring to a conversational interview for media or a counseling session, “インタビュー” or “面談” may be more suitable.
3. Politeness matters
In Japanese culture, politeness is highly valued. When referring to an interview conducted by someone of higher status or addressing a superior, it’s crucial to use respectful language and honorifics. Always be mindful of the appropriate level of politeness based on the context.
Examples
Let’s explore some practical examples of how to use the different expressions for “interview” in Japanese:
Example 1:
明日、大学の学長との面接があります。
(あした、だいがくのがくちょうとのめんせつがあります。)
Translation: Tomorrow, I have an interview with the university president.
Example 2:
このインタビューはどのメディアで公開されるのですか？
(このいんたびゅーはどのめでぃあでこうかいされるのですか？)
Translation: On which media outlet will this interview be released?
Example 3:
面談室は二階にあります。
(めんだんしつはにかいにあります。)
Translation: The interview room is on the second floor.
Wrap-Up
Congratulations! You’ve now gained valuable insights into saying “interview” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Remember the core expressions: “面接” for formal interviews, “インタビュー” for media or casual conversations, and “面談” or “会談” for non-professional contexts. Be mindful of regional variations, but rest assured that the terms covered in this guide are universally understood throughout Japan. Keep these tips and examples in mind, and you’ll be well-equipped for your next linguistic encounter in Japanese!
