タクシードライバー
takushī doraibā
The English phrase "taxi driver" is translated into Japanese as タクシードライバー (takushī doraibā).
タクシードライバー refers specifically to a person who drives a taxicab.
Meaning: person who drives a taxicab (noun)
Which one should you use?
タクシードライバー is a loanword that sounds more modern or specific to the profession. In contrast, 運転手 (untenshu) is a more common, native Japanese way to say 'driver' or 'operator' in general contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using the katakana loanword タクシードライバー sounds more modern or specific to the profession, whereas 運転手 is a more traditional Japanese term.
How do you pronounce it?
takushī doraibā
Did you know?
- If you are riding in a taxi, you might notice the driver uses a specialized lever to open the door automatically. You should never attempt to open the door yourself, as this is a standard part of the driver's service.
- Japanese taxi drivers are often praised for their extreme professionalism, including wearing pristine white gloves and formal suits, treating the job more like a chauffeur service than a standard cab ride.
- In Japan, you will rarely address a taxi driver as タクシードライバー. Instead, passengers almost always use the respectful term 運転手さん (untenshu-san) to get their attention.
Examples in context
- 彼はプロのタクシードライバーです。Kare wa puro no takushiduribā desu.He is a professional taxi driver.
- タクシードライバーの仕事は大変です。Takushiduribā no shigoto wa taihen desu.The job of a taxi driver is tough.
- 私の兄はタクシードライバーをしています。Watashi no ani wa takushiduribā o shite imasu.My older brother works as a taxi driver.
Example conversation
Yui and Yota are talking about career paths in a cafe.
- 結衣 Yui陽太くんの兄さんは何をしていますか？Yota-kun no oniisan wa nani o shite imasu ka?What does your older brother do, Yota?
- 陽太 Yotaタクシードライバーとして働いています。Takushiduribā to shite hataraite imasu.He works as a taxi driver.
- 結衣 Yuiかっこいいですね！Kakkoii desu ne!That's cool!
- 陽太 Yotaはい、とても親切な方ですよ。Hai, totemo shinsetsu na kata desu yo.Yes, he is a very kind person.
