🇯🇵 How to say

“teacher” in Japanese

先生せんせい
Illustration of "teacher" in a Japanese cultural setting
A classroom filled with students eagerly listening as their teacher, a kind-looking woman, explains a lesson on the board. The students raise their hands to ask questions, showing their engagement and interest in learning.

Usage note

The word 先生 (せんせい) means 'teacher' and is used to show respect. It can be used for teachers in schools, but also for professionals like doctors and lawyers in a respectful way.

Examples

  • 先生は教室にいます。

    The teacher is in the classroom.

  • 私の先生は日本人です。

    My teacher is Japanese.

  • 先生に質問があります。

    I have a question for the teacher.

Quick check

What does "先生" mean?

  • A. teacher
  • B. friend
  • C. ramen noodles
  • D. school

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