Translation and Meaning of: 教師 - kyoushi

The Japanese word 教師[きょうし] is essential for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. It carries deep meanings and is present in the daily lives of students, professionals, and even in works of Japanese media. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, practical use, and curiosities that make this expression more than just a simple term.

If you have ever wondered how the Japanese perceive the figure of a teacher or how this word is applied in different contexts, you are in the right place. Here at Suki Nihongo, the best online Japanese dictionary, we have gathered accurate information to help you understand 教師[きょうし] in a clear and useful way.

Meaning and usage of 教師 [きょうし]

教師[きょうし] means "teacher" or "instructor", but its use goes beyond the traditional classroom. Unlike 先生[せんせい], which also means "teacher" but with a more respectful and broader tone, 教師 tends to be more formal and specific. While 先生 can be used for doctors, artists, or masters in general, 教師 normally refers to those who teach in educational institutions.

An interesting detail is that 教師[きょうし] frequently appears in professional and academic contexts. For example, in language schools or technical courses, it is common to see ads seeking "日本語教師" (Japanese teacher). In universities, the term can be combined with other words to specify the area of expertise, such as "数学教師" (mathematics teacher).

Origin and writing of 教師 [きょうし]

The word 教師 is composed of two kanjis: 教 (to teach) and 師 (master, specialist). Together, they convey the idea of a "master who teaches," which reflects the importance given to education in Japan. The kanji 教 appears in other terms related to teaching, such as 教育[きょういく] (education) and 教室[きょうしつ] (classroom). On the other hand, 師 is used in words like 医師[いし] (doctor) and 講師[こうし] (lecturer).

It is worth noting that the pronunciation きょうし follows the on'yomi reading, derived from ancient Chinese, which is common in more formal or technical terms. This contrasts with words like 先生[せんせい], which blend on'yomi and kun'yomi readings. The choice of reading also reinforces the professional character of 教師, differentiating it from more everyday expressions.

Teacher [きょうし] in Japanese culture

In Japan, the figure of the teacher is highly respected, and this is reflected in the use of 教師. In animes and dramas, for example, characters who are 教師 often appear as mentors or inspiring figures. A famous case is the anime "Great Teacher Onizuka," where the protagonist is a 教師 who unexpectedly impacts the lives of his students.

Culturally, being a 教師 goes beyond transmitting knowledge. It is expected that they also guide students on moral and behavioral issues. This expectation is clear in expressions like 教師の使命[きょうしのしめい] (teacher's mission), which emphasizes the social role of this profession. It's no wonder that many Japanese people maintain contact with their former 教師 even years after leaving school.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

先生 (sensei) - Professor, master; used to refer to teachers or respected professionals.
教える人 (oshieru hito) - Person who teaches; can refer to any type of teacher.
指導者 (shidousha) - Leader or instructor; someone who guides or directs a group, does not necessarily have to be an academic figure.
講師 (koushi) - Professor or instructor; generally a specialist who teaches in an academic or training environment.
師匠 (shishou) - Master; used to refer to someone who has great mastery in an art or craft, in addition to being a teacher.