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A2 noun #1,200 le plus courant 10 min de lecture

上司

joshi Top 1,200

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces 上司 en 30 secondes

Explication 上司 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you are just beginning to learn the basic vocabulary of daily life. '上司' (joushi) is an important word if you are working or plan to work in Japan. At this stage, you should simply remember that '上司' means 'boss.' You will use it in very simple sentences like 'My boss is kind' or 'I have a boss.' You don't need to worry about complex honorifics yet. Just focus on the connection between the kanji '上' (up) and the concept of someone who is above you in a job. You might hear this word when people introduce their workplace or when you learn about office-related nouns. It is a 'building block' word for your professional vocabulary. Think of it as the counterpart to 'subordinate' or 'coworker,' which you will learn later. Even at A1, knowing this word helps you understand the basic structure of a Japanese company.

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At the A2 level, you are starting to describe your environment and routines. You can now use '上司' (joushi) to talk about your daily interactions. For example, you can say 'I talk to my boss every day' or 'I went to lunch with my boss.' You should also begin to understand the particle 'に' (ni) when used with '上司,' such as '上司に報告します' (I report to my boss). At this level, you are also learning about 'te-form' and basic polite language (desu/masu). You will notice that when people talk about their '上司,' they often use a polite tone. You should also be aware that you don't call your boss 'Joushi' to their face. This is a key cultural point for A2 learners. You are moving from just knowing the word to knowing how it fits into basic social situations.

At the B1 level, you are becoming more independent in your Japanese. You can now discuss workplace dynamics and your feelings about your job. You will use '上司' (joushi) in more complex sentences involving conjunctions like 'because' or 'although.' For example, 'Although my boss is strict, he is very fair.' You will also start to encounter 'Keigo' (honorific Japanese) in relation to your boss. You should understand that when your '上司' is the subject of a sentence, you might need to use respectful verbs like 'irassharu' (to be/go/come) or 'nasaru' (to do). You will also learn about 'Hou-Ren-So' (reporting, contacting, consulting) and how '上司' is the central figure in this process. Your ability to use '上司' correctly in a business email or a formal introduction starts to develop here.

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At the B2 level, you are expected to handle professional situations with relative ease. You should understand the nuances of '上司' (joushi) in different registers. For instance, you know how to use the 'Uchi-Soto' (In-group/Out-group) principle: when talking to a client, you refer to your boss as 'Joushi' or by their name without honorifics to show humility for your company. You can also discuss management styles, leadership qualities, and corporate hierarchy using this word. You might encounter '上司' in business news, discussing things like 'power harassment' (pawa-hara) or 'ideal leadership.' Your vocabulary around '上司' expands to include terms like 'direct superior' (chokkan no joushi) or 'immediate boss.' You are now using the word not just to label a person, but to navigate complex social and professional relationships.

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At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the cultural and linguistic subtleties of the Japanese workplace. You can use '上司' (joushi) to discuss abstract concepts like organizational psychology, the evolution of the seniority system (nenkou joretsu), and the changing nature of the boss-subordinate relationship in modern Japan. You are comfortable using high-level honorifics (Sonkeigo and Kenjougo) fluently when the '上司' is involved. You can read and write formal reports where '上司' is used to describe management layers. You also understand the historical context of the kanji '司' and how it relates to government administration. You can participate in debates about the effectiveness of traditional Japanese management versus Western styles, using '上司' as a key term to describe the traditional authority figure.

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At the C2 level, you possess a near-native command of the word '上司' (joushi) and its place in the Japanese psyche. You can analyze the word's usage in classical literature or modern sociological texts. You understand the most subtle implications of using '上司' versus '上の人' or '管理職' in various contexts. You can navigate the most delicate professional situations, such as mediating a conflict between a '上司' and a '部下,' using perfectly appropriate language. You are aware of the philosophical underpinnings of authority in Japan and how the concept of '上司' reflects broader societal values like harmony (wa) and loyalty (chu). At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a window into the complex heart of Japanese social structure, and you use it with total precision and cultural sensitivity.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

上司 en 30 secondes

上司 (joushi) means boss or superior in a professional context.
It is used to talk about your boss, not to address them directly.
The word reflects the vertical hierarchy (tate-shakai) of Japanese society.
It is the counterpart to 部下 (buka), which means subordinate.

The Japanese word 上司 (じょうし - joushi) is a fundamental noun in the Japanese lexicon, specifically within the realm of professional and social hierarchies. At its core, it translates to 'boss,' 'superior,' or 'one's senior officer.' However, in the context of Japanese society—which is famously structured around vertical relationships (known as tate-shakai)—the word carries weight far beyond a simple job title. It defines a specific dynamic of responsibility, mentorship, and authority that governs daily interactions in the workplace.

Etymological Breakdown: The first kanji, 上 (ue/jou), means 'up,' 'above,' or 'superior.' The second kanji, 司 (tsukasa/shi), means 'to administer,' 'to rule,' or 'an official.' Together, they literally describe someone who 'administers from above.'
Social Application: You use this word when referring to your boss in a general sense or when talking to people outside your immediate circle about your superior. It is the standard term for the person you report to in a corporate, governmental, or institutional setting.

新しい上司は、とても経験が豊富で尊敬できる方です。
(My new boss is a very experienced and respectable person.)

In a Japanese company, the relationship with your 上司 is governed by the concept of Hou-Ren-So (Report, Contact, Consult). A subordinate is expected to keep their superior constantly informed. Therefore, the word appears frequently in discussions about workplace communication, performance reviews, and team structures. It is important to note that while you refer to the person as your 上司 when talking about them, you would rarely address them directly as 'Joushi-san.' Instead, you would use their specific title, such as Kacho (Section Manager) or Bucho (Department Manager).

Furthermore, the term encompasses not just the person directly above you, but often the entire management layer above your position. In modern Japanese, there is also the term Chokkan no Joushi (direct supervisor), which specifies the person you report to immediately. Understanding this word is crucial for anyone navigating the Japanese professional world, as it sets the stage for the honorific language (keigo) you will need to employ.

上司の許可を得てから、プロジェクトを進めます。
(I will proceed with the project after obtaining my boss's permission.)

Usage in Media: In Japanese dramas or anime centered on office life (like 'Hanzawa Naoki'), the word is used to highlight the power dynamics and the struggles of the 'salaryman.' It often carries a connotation of either a mentor to be followed or an obstacle to be overcome.

Using 上司 (joushi) correctly requires an understanding of Japanese sentence structure and the particles that connect nouns to actions. Since a boss is usually the one giving orders, receiving reports, or being the subject of respect, the word is frequently paired with specific verbs and particles like に (ni), と (to), and は (wa).

The 'Reporting' Pattern: When you report something to your boss, you use the particle に. Example: Joushi ni houkoku suru (Report to the boss). This is the most common functional use of the word.

出張の報告を上司にしました。
(I reported on the business trip to my boss.)

Another frequent pattern involves the particle と when discussing consultation or meetings. Joushi to soudan suru (Consult with the boss) is a key phrase in Japanese business etiquette. It implies that you are not acting alone but are seeking the wisdom and approval of your superior.

有給休暇について、上司と相談しました。
(I consulted with my boss about taking paid leave.)

Descriptive Usage: When describing your boss's personality or actions, 上司 acts as the subject. Example: Joushi wa kibishii (My boss is strict). Here, the focus is on the attributes of the superior.

In more complex sentences, you might use 上司 in the possessive form with の. For example, Joushi no shiji (The boss's instructions) or Joushi no kitai (The boss's expectations). These phrases help describe the environment and pressures of the workplace.

上司の指示に従って、資料を作成しました。
(I prepared the documents according to my boss's instructions.)

Finally, when introducing your boss to someone outside your company, you would use 上司 but omit any honorifics for the boss themselves, as you are speaking from the perspective of your 'in-group' (uchi) to an 'out-group' (soto). This is a sophisticated point of Japanese grammar that learners should aim to master.

こちらは私の上司の佐藤です。
(This is my boss, Mr. Sato.)

Passive Voice Usage: In Japanese, the passive voice is often used to express that someone (usually a superior) did something that affected you. Joushi ni homerareta (I was praised by my boss) sounds more natural than the active 'My boss praised me' in many contexts.

The word 上司 (joushi) is omnipresent in Japanese daily life, particularly in urban centers like Tokyo and Osaka where the corporate culture is the heartbeat of the city. You will hear it in office hallways, at izakayas (Japanese pubs) after work, and in various forms of media that depict the life of the 'salaryman.'

In the Office: While you don't call your boss 'Joushi' to their face, you will hear it constantly in meetings when referring to the management. For example, 'We need to check with the joushi before making a decision.' It is the standard term used in HR documents, company handbooks, and official emails.

「上司に確認してからお返事します。」
("I will reply after confirming with my boss.")

At the izakaya, the word takes on a more informal, sometimes venting tone. Colleagues gathered after a long day will often discuss their 上司 over drinks. You might hear phrases like Uchi no joushi wa... (My boss is...), followed by either a compliment or a complaint. This 'after-hours' talk is a crucial part of social bonding in Japan.

「昨日の飲み会で、上司が熱く語っていたよ。」
("At yesterday's drinking party, the boss was talking passionately.")

News and Media: On the news, 上司 is used in reports about workplace trends, labor issues, or corporate scandals. In entertainment, dramas like 'Aggretsuko' or 'The Full-Time Wife Escapist' frequently use the word to explore the power dynamics between characters.

You will also encounter the word in self-help books and business magazines. Titles like 'How to get along with your 上司' or 'What 上司 look for in subordinates' are very common in Japanese bookstores. This reflects the deep cultural interest in maintaining harmonious vertical relationships.

理想の上司についてのアンケート結果が発表されました。
(The survey results about the 'ideal boss' have been announced.)

Job Interviews: During interviews, candidates are often asked, 'What kind of 上司 do you work best with?' or 'Tell us about a time you disagreed with your 上司.' Knowing the word is essential for answering these standard professional questions.

While 上司 (joushi) is a straightforward noun, its application within the complex web of Japanese etiquette can lead to several common pitfalls for English speakers. The most frequent errors involve address, honorifics, and confusing 上司 with other similar-sounding or related terms.

Mistake 1: Addressing the Boss Directly: In English, you might say 'Hey Boss!' or 'Excuse me, Superior.' In Japanese, you never call your boss 'Joushi' or 'Joushi-san' to their face. It sounds clinical and rude. Instead, use their title (e.g., Tanaka-bucho or just Bucho).

❌ 「上司、質問があります。」
✅ 「部長、質問があります。」
(Correct: "Manager, I have a question.")

Another common mistake is failing to use Keigo (honorific language) when talking about your 上司 to a colleague. Even if you are not talking to the boss, using humble or polite forms shows respect for the hierarchy. However, remember the 'Uchi-Soto' rule: when talking to a client about your boss, you must use humble forms and refer to them simply as 'Joushi' or by their name without '-san.'

Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Particle: When you receive something from a boss, you should use に or から. However, to show extra respect, use から with a humble verb. Example: Joushi kara shiji o itadakimasu (I receive instructions from my boss).

Confusion also arises with the word 部下 (buka), which means subordinate. Beginners sometimes mix these up because they are two sides of the same coin. Always remember that 上 (jou) means 'up,' so 上司 is the person 'up' there.

❌ 「私は彼の上司です。」 (When you are actually his subordinate)
✅ 「私は彼の部下です。」
(Correct: "I am his subordinate.")

Mistake 3: Over-using 'Watashi no': In Japanese, context usually makes it clear whose boss you are talking about. Constantly saying Watashi no joushi (My boss) can sound repetitive and slightly unnatural. Just Joushi is often enough if the context is clear.

While 上司 (joushi) is the most common term for a boss, Japanese has several other words that describe superiors depending on the context, the level of formality, and the specific relationship. Understanding these nuances will make your Japanese sound much more natural and professional.

上司 (Joushi) vs. 先輩 (Senpai): 上司 is a formal, structural role (managerial authority). 先輩 is a social role based on seniority (someone who joined before you). A senpai can be a joushi, but not all senpai are joushi.
上司 (Joushi) vs. 目上の人 (Meue no hito): 目上の人 literally means 'person above one's eyes.' It is a broader term for anyone of higher social status, including elders, teachers, or superiors. 上司 is specifically for the workplace.

彼は私の上司ではありませんが、尊敬する先輩です。
(He is not my boss, but he is a senior I respect.)

In very formal or written contexts, you might see 上役 (uwayaku). This refers to high-ranking officials or executives. It is less common in daily conversation than 上司 but appears in literature and formal reports. On the other hand, ボス (bosu) is the katakana version of 'boss.' It is often used for leaders of gangs, informal groups, or sometimes jokingly for a powerful person, but it is rarely used in a standard corporate setting.

Management Terms: 管理職 (Kanrishoku) refers to 'management' as a whole or 'managerial positions.' While 上司 refers to the person, 管理職 refers to the class or category of employees.

Another interesting alternative is 上の人 (ue no hito), which is a more colloquial and slightly indirect way to say 'the people above' or 'the bosses.' It is often used when you want to sound less formal or when you are referring to an unspecified group of superiors.

この件については、上の人たちの判断を待ちましょう。
(Regarding this matter, let's wait for the judgment of the people above us.)

Summary Table

上司 (Joushi): Standard term for one's boss.
先輩 (Senpai): Senior colleague (not necessarily a boss).
目上の人 (Meue no hito): Anyone of higher social status.
ボス (Bosu): Informal/Gangs/Joking.
管理職 (Kanrishoku): Management/Managerial staff.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The kanji '司' (shi) is also found in the word 'Sushi' (寿司), though in that case, it is used as ateji (phonetic kanji) and doesn't mean 'administer'!

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈdʒəʊ.ʃi/

US /ˈdʒoʊ.ʃi/

In Japanese, pitch accent is used. For 'joushi', the accent is typically on the first syllable (Atamadaka style), where the pitch starts high and drops.

Rime avec

Koushi (lattice) Houshi (service) Toushi (investment) Boushi (hat) Soushi (founder) Ryoushi (fisherman/quantum) Kyoushi (teacher) Gyoushi (staring)

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing the 'o' too short (sounding like 'joshi', which means 'girl').
Pronouncing the 'u' as a separate vowel (it should just lengthen the 'o').
Putting the stress on the 'shi' syllable.
Confusing it with 'joshi' (particle).
Making the 'j' sound too soft like a French 'j'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 2/5

The kanji are basic (N4 level), but the context of usage is important.

Écriture 3/5

Writing '司' correctly requires attention to stroke order.

Expression orale 2/5

Easy to pronounce, but requires care with pitch accent.

Écoute 2/5

Commonly heard in business contexts; easy to recognize.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

上 (Up) 会社 (Company) 仕事 (Work) 人 (Person) 私 (I)

Apprends ensuite

部下 (Subordinate) 同僚 (Colleague) 敬語 (Honorifics) 報告 (Report) 相談 (Consultation)

Avancé

稟議 (Circulating a proposal for approval) 忖度 (Surmising someone's feelings/intentions) 年功序列 (Seniority system) 終身雇用 (Lifetime employment)

Grammaire à connaître

Sonkeigo (Respectful Language)

上司がおっしゃいました。(The boss said.)

Kenjougo (Humble Language)

上司に申し上げます。(I will tell the boss.)

Passive Voice for Respect

上司に来られました。(The boss came - respectful nuance.)

Particle 'ni' for Recipient

上司に書類を渡す。(Hand the documents to the boss.)

Particle 'no' for Possession

上司の机。(The boss's desk.)

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Exemples par niveau

私の上司は親切です。

My boss is kind.

Simple [Subject] + は + [Adjective] + です structure.

上司はどこですか。

Where is the boss?

Asking for the location of a person.

新しい上司が来ました。

A new boss came.

Using the particle 'が' to introduce a new subject.

上司と話をします。

I will talk with my boss.

The particle 'と' means 'with'.

上司は日本人です。

My boss is Japanese.

Stating the nationality of the boss.

これは上司の本です。

This is the boss's book.

Using 'の' for possession.

上司は忙しいです。

The boss is busy.

Describing the state of the boss.

上司の名前を知っていますか。

Do you know the boss's name?

Asking for information about the boss.

上司にメールを送りました。

I sent an email to my boss.

The particle 'に' indicates the recipient.

上司からプレゼントをもらいました。

I received a present from my boss.

The particle 'から' indicates the source.

上司と一緒に昼ご飯を食べました。

I ate lunch together with my boss.

'と一緒に' means 'together with'.

上司はいつも早く会社に来ます。

My boss always comes to the company early.

Describing a habitual action.

上司に仕事を頼まれました。

I was asked to do a job by my boss.

Passive voice '頼まれました'.

上司は英語が上手です。

My boss is good at English.

Describing a skill with 'が上手です'.

上司に相談してもいいですか。

May I consult with my boss?

Asking for permission with '~てもいいですか'.

上司は会議に出ています。

The boss is in a meeting.

Present continuous state with '~ています'.

上司に許可をもらってから、帰ります。

I will go home after getting permission from my boss.

Using '~てから' to show sequence of actions.

上司が厳しいので、緊張します。

Because my boss is strict, I get nervous.

Using 'ので' to explain a reason.

上司は、部下の意見をよく聞いてくれます。

My boss listens well to his subordinates' opinions.

Using '~てくれる' to show a favor done by the boss.

上司に報告するのを忘れました。

I forgot to report to my boss.

Nominalizing a verb with 'の'.

上司に褒められて、とても嬉しかったです。

I was very happy because I was praised by my boss.

Passive voice '褒められて' indicating a positive effect.

上司の指示が分かりにくかったです。

The boss's instructions were hard to understand.

Using the '~にくい' suffix for difficulty.

上司は、明日出張するそうです。

I heard that the boss is going on a business trip tomorrow.

Using 'そうです' to report hearsay.

上司に反対されましたが、諦めませんでした。

I was opposed by my boss, but I didn't give up.

Using 'が' to show contrast.

上司の期待に応えられるように、頑張ります。

I will do my best to meet my boss's expectations.

Using '~ように' to express a goal.

上司に代わって、私が会議に出席します。

I will attend the meeting on behalf of my boss.

Using '~に代わって' to mean 'instead of' or 'on behalf of'.

上司は、私のミスをカバーしてくれました。

My boss covered for my mistake.

Using 'カバーしてくれた' to show support.

上司とのコミュニケーションが大切です。

Communication with the boss is important.

Using 'との' to connect two nouns.

上司にアドバイスを求めたところ、丁寧に教えてくれました。

When I asked my boss for advice, he taught me kindly.

Using '~たところ' to describe a result of an action.

上司は、常に冷静な判断を下します。

My boss always makes calm judgments.

Describing a professional quality.

上司の許可なしに、勝手なことはできません。

I cannot do things on my own without the boss's permission.

Using 'なしに' to mean 'without'.

上司に気に入られるために、お世辞を言う人もいます。

Some people say flatteries to be liked by their boss.

Using '気に入られる' (passive) and 'ために' (purpose).

上司のマネジメントスタイルは、非常に民主的です。

My boss's management style is very democratic.

Using abstract business terminology.

上司の顔色を伺いながら仕事をするのは、疲れます。

It is tiring to work while constantly gauging the boss's mood.

Idiomatic expression '顔色を伺う' (reading someone's face/mood).

上司は、部下の育成に非常に熱心です。

The boss is very enthusiastic about developing his subordinates.

Using '育成' (development/nurturing) in a professional context.

上司の責任を追及するのは、容易なことではありません。

It is not an easy thing to hold the boss accountable.

Using '責任を追及する' (to hold accountable/pursue responsibility).

上司の独断でプロジェクトが中止になりました。

The project was cancelled based on the boss's sole discretion.

Using '独断' (sole decision/arbitrary decision).

上司は、現場の意見を尊重すべきだ。

The boss should respect the opinions of those on the ground.

Using 'べきだ' to express an obligation or strong recommendation.

上司との信頼関係を築くには、時間がかかります。

It takes time to build a relationship of trust with one's boss.

Using '信頼関係を築く' (to build a relationship of trust).

上司の威厳を損なわないように、言葉遣いに気をつけます。

I am careful with my language so as not to damage the boss's dignity.

Using '威厳を損なう' (to damage dignity/authority).

上司という存在は、組織において象徴的な役割も果たします。

The existence of a 'boss' also plays a symbolic role within an organization.

Using 'という存在' to discuss the concept of a boss.

上司の不祥事により、会社全体の信頼が失墜しました。

Due to the boss's scandal, the trust of the entire company collapsed.

Using '不祥事' (scandal) and '失墜' (fall/collapse of trust).

上司のリーダーシップが、組織の命運を左右すると言っても過言ではない。

It is no exaggeration to say that the boss's leadership determines the fate of the organization.

Using '命運を左右する' (to determine the fate) and '過言ではない' (no exaggeration).

上司の意向を汲み取ることが、円滑な業務遂行の鍵となります。

Reading between the lines of the boss's intentions is the key to smooth business execution.

Using '意向を汲み取る' (to grasp/read someone's intentions).

上司のパワハラ問題が、社会的な議論を巻き起こしています。

The issue of power harassment by bosses is sparking social debate.

Using '議論を巻き起こす' (to spark/stir up debate).

上司の背中を見て育つという伝統的な徒弟制度の名残があります。

There remains a vestige of the traditional apprenticeship system of 'growing up by watching the boss's back.'

Using '背中を見て育つ' (learning by observing a mentor).

上司の評価が、社員のモチベーションに多大な影響を及ぼします。

The boss's evaluation exerts a significant influence on employee motivation.

Using '多大な影響を及ぼす' (to exert a great influence).

上司の権限を逸脱した行為は、厳しく罰せられるべきです。

Acts that exceed the boss's authority should be strictly punished.

Using '権限を逸脱する' (to exceed/deviate from authority).

Collocations courantes

上司に報告する

上司と相談する

上司の許可を得る

上司の指示に従う

直属の上司

理想の上司

上司に褒められる

上司に叱られる

上司の期待に応える

上司を説得する

Phrases Courantes

上司の顔色を伺う

— To gauge the boss's mood or try to please them. It often has a negative connotation of being overly cautious.

彼はいつも上司の顔色を伺っている。

上司に恵まれる

— To be blessed with a good boss. It is used when you have a supportive and capable superior.

私は本当に上司に恵まれています。

上司に楯突く

— To defy or rebel against one's boss. It implies a direct confrontation.

上司に楯突くなんて、勇気があるね。

上司にゴマをする

— To butter up or flatter the boss. Literally 'to grind sesame seeds.'

彼は出世のために上司にゴマをすっている。

上司の覚えがめでたい

— To be in the boss's good graces. To be highly regarded by the superior.

彼女は仕事ができるので、上司の覚えがめでたい。

上司の不興を買う

— To incur the boss's displeasure. To make the boss unhappy with your actions.

失礼な態度で上司の不興を買ってしまった。

上司の懐に入る

— To get into the boss's inner circle or win their deep trust.

彼はうまく上司の懐に入り込んだ。

上司に一目置かれる

— To be recognized or respected by the boss as someone capable.

彼の才能は上司にも一目置かれている。

上司の耳に入れる

— To let the boss know about something. To inform them of a specific matter.

この件は、早めに上司の耳に入れておこう。

上司を立てる

— To show respect to the boss or make them look good in front of others.

人前では上司を立てることが大切だ。

Souvent confondu avec

上司 vs 先輩 (Senpai)

A senpai is a senior in experience, while a joushi is a superior in rank.

上司 vs 社長 (Shacho)

Shacho is the company president; joushi is your immediate boss.

上司 vs 女子 (Joshi)

Sounds similar but means 'girl' or 'woman' (short 'o').

Expressions idiomatiques

"長いものには巻かれろ"

— Go with the flow of those in power. Often applied to following a boss's orders even if you disagree.

上司の意見には逆らわず、長いものには巻かれろだ。

Proverbial

"胡麻を擂る"

— To flatter someone (like a boss) to gain favor. (Goma o suru)

上司に胡麻を擂っても無駄だよ。

Informal

"鶴の一声"

— The voice of authority that settles a matter instantly. Often used for a boss's final decision.

上司の鶴の一声で、方針が決まった。

Idiomatic

"顔を立てる"

— To save someone's face. Often used when subordinates act to protect a boss's reputation.

上司の顔を立てるために、私が責任を取ります。

Polite

"阿吽の呼吸"

— Being in perfect sync. Used for a boss and subordinate who understand each other without words.

彼と上司は阿吽の呼吸で仕事をしている。

Literary

"虎の威を借る狐"

— A fox borrowing the tiger's authority. Used for a subordinate who acts powerful because of their boss.

彼は上司の威を借る狐のような男だ。

Idiomatic

"腹を割る"

— To speak frankly and honestly. Used when a boss and subordinate talk without barriers.

上司と腹を割って話し合った。

Colloquial

"目に入れても痛くない"

— To dote on someone. Occasionally used for a boss who excessively favors a specific subordinate.

上司は新入社員を、目に入れても痛くないほど可愛がっている。

Idiomatic

"下手の考え休むに似たり"

— A poor man's thinking is like doing nothing. Sometimes said by a boss to a subordinate who is overthinking.

上司に「下手の考え休むに似たりだ」と言われた。

Proverbial

"朱に交われば赤くなる"

— You become like those you associate with. Often used regarding the influence of a boss on their team.

上司が真面目だと、部下も朱に交われば赤くなるものだ。

Proverbial

Facile à confondre

上司 vs 上長 (Jouchou)

Both mean superior.

Jouchou is more formal and often used in official documents or military contexts.

上長の承認が必要です。

上司 vs 目上 (Meue)

Both refer to people above you.

Meue is a general social term; Joushi is strictly for the workplace hierarchy.

目上の人には敬意を払いましょう。

上司 vs 管理者 (Kanrisha)

Both involve management.

Kanrisha refers to the function of managing (like a system admin), while Joushi refers to the person you report to.

マンションの管理者。

上司 vs 恩師 (Onshi)

Both are respected superiors.

Onshi is specifically a former teacher to whom you owe a debt of gratitude.

卒業後も恩師を訪ねる。

上司 vs 主人 (Shujin)

Both can mean 'master' or 'head'.

Shujin means 'husband' or 'owner of a shop/house', never a corporate boss.

店の主人に挨拶する。

Structures de phrases

[Name]は私の[上司]です。

田中さんは私の上司です。

[上司]に[Noun]を[Verb-masu]。

上司に報告をしました。

[上司]が[Adjective]ので、[Result]。

上司が厳しいので、大変です。

[上司]の期待に[Verb-potential]ように[Verb]。

上司の期待に応えられるように頑張ります。

[上司]の[Noun]を汲み取って[Verb]。

上司の意向を汲み取って行動します。

[上司]という[Noun]のあり方を[Verb]。

上司という存在のあり方を再考する。

[上司]に[Verb-passive]。

上司に褒められました。

[上司]と[Noun]を[Verb]。

上司と昼ご飯を食べます。

Famille de mots

Noms

上司 (Boss)

部下 (Subordinate)

同僚 (Colleague)

上長 (Superior officer)

上層部 (Upper management)

Verbes

司る (Tsukasadoru - to administer/rule)

上る (Noboru - to go up)

Apparenté

会社 (Company)

役職 (Post/Title)

昇進 (Promotion)

指示 (Instruction)

報告 (Report)

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high in business and daily life contexts.

Erreurs courantes

Calling the boss 'Joushi-san'. → Calling them by title (e.g., 'Bucho').
Joushi is a descriptive noun, not an address term. It's like calling your father 'Parent' instead of 'Dad'.
Confusing 'Joushi' with 'Senpai'. → Using 'Joushi' for a manager and 'Senpai' for a senior colleague.
A senpai is about time/experience; a joushi is about power/rank. They are not the same.
Using honorifics for your boss when talking to a client. → Using humble language and no titles for your boss.
In the Uchi-Soto system, your boss is part of your 'Uchi' (in-group) when talking to an outsider.
Pronouncing it as 'Joshi' (short 'o'). → Pronouncing it as 'Joushi' (long 'o').
'Joshi' means girl or particle. The long vowel is crucial for meaning.
Using 'Joushi' for a teacher. → Using 'Sensei'.
Joushi is strictly for business/organizational hierarchies, not educational ones.

Astuces

The Hou-Ren-So Rule

Always remember to report (Houkoku), contact (Renraku), and consult (Soudan) with your joushi. This is the golden rule of Japanese business. Failing to do this can damage your relationship with your superior.

Avoid -san

Never say 'Joushi-san'. It sounds like you are trying to be polite but don't know the proper way to address someone. Use the title instead.

Izakaya Etiquette

If your joushi invites you for drinks, it's usually best to go, at least for the first round. This is called 'nomu-nication' and is vital for building trust.

Passive Praise

When you want to say your boss praised you, use the passive form: 'Joushi ni homerareta'. It sounds more natural and humble than the active form.

Email Humility

In emails to other companies, refer to your boss as '弊社上司' (Our company's superior) to show proper humility for your organization.

Up-Admin

Remember the kanji: Up (上) + Administer (司). The person who administers from above is your boss.

Pitch Accent

Practice the 'Atamadaka' pitch. Start high on 'Jo' and drop on 'u-shi'. This will make your Japanese sound much more native.

Related Terms

Learn 'Buka' (subordinate) at the same time. They are a pair, and knowing both helps you understand office dynamics better.

Giving Feedback

If you must disagree with your joushi, use the 'Yes, but' method. Acknowledge their point first (Soudesu ne...) before offering your perspective.

Ideal Joushi

In Japan, an 'ideal joushi' is often seen as someone who protects their subordinates and takes responsibility for the team's failures.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Imagine a person standing **UP** (上) on a desk, **ADMINISTERING** (司) the office. That's your **JOUSHI**.

Association visuelle

Visualize a ladder. The person on the rung above you is your 'Joushi'. The 'jou' (上) literally points upwards.

Word Web

Office Hierarchy Manager Authority Promotion Salaryman Business Respect

Défi

Try to identify who your 'joushi' would be in different scenarios: a school (principal), a sports team (coach), or a movie set (director).

Origine du mot

The word originates from Middle Chinese roots. The kanji '上' (up) and '司' (official/administer) were combined to describe someone in a superior administrative position.

Sens originel : Originally, it referred to government officials or those holding high-ranking administrative posts in the imperial court.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Contexte culturel

Be careful when discussing 'joushi' in a negative light; in Japan, complaining about a superior can be seen as a lack of loyalty or professionalism.

In English-speaking cultures, the relationship with a boss is often more lateral and informal compared to the strict verticality in Japan.

Hanzawa Naoki (TV Drama about banking hierarchy) Aggretsuko (Anime featuring a literal pig as a boss) The internal 'Ideal Boss' rankings published annually in Japan.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Daily Office Work

上司に確認します
上司の指示です
上司に報告しました
上司と打ち合わせです

Performance Reviews

上司からの評価
上司と面談する
上司に目標を伝える
上司のフィードバック

Job Interviews

尊敬する上司
上司とのトラブル
理想の上司像
上司に期待すること

Socializing (Izakaya)

上司の愚痴
上司のおごり
上司に誘われる
上司の昔話

HR/Administration

上司の承認
上司の変更
上司への不満
上司の責任

Amorces de conversation

"あなたの上司はどんな人ですか？ (What kind of person is your boss?)"

"上司と上手く付き合うコツは何ですか？ (What is the secret to getting along well with your boss?)"

"理想の上司はどんなタイプですか？ (What type of person is your ideal boss?)"

"上司に褒められたことはありますか？ (Have you ever been praised by your boss?)"

"もしあなたが上司になったら、何を大切にしますか？ (If you became a boss, what would you value?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、上司と話した内容について書いてください。 (Write about what you discussed with your boss today.)

上司から学んだ最も重要な教訓は何ですか？ (What is the most important lesson you learned from your boss?)

上司に対して感謝していることをリストアップしてください。 (List the things you are grateful for regarding your boss.)

上司とのコミュニケーションで苦労していることはありますか？ (Is there anything you struggle with in communicating with your boss?)

将来、どのような上司になりたいか詳しく述べてください。 (Describe in detail what kind of boss you want to be in the future.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

No, you should never address your boss as 'Joushi'. It is a term used to describe the role, not a title for address. Use their actual title like 'Bucho' (Manager) or 'Kacho' (Section Chief). If you don't know their title, '[Name]-san' is safer, but titles are preferred in Japanese companies.

A 'Senpai' is someone who has been at the company or school longer than you. They are your senior, but they might not have any authority over you. A 'Joushi' is your formal boss who assigns your work and evaluates your performance. You can have a 'Senpai' who is not your 'Joushi', and theoretically, a 'Joushi' who is younger than you (though rare in traditional companies).

When talking to someone outside your company (the 'Soto' group), you must humble your own group ('Uchi'). Therefore, you refer to your boss by their surname only (e.g., 'Tanaka') or as 'Joushi no Tanaka' (My boss, Tanaka). You do not use '-san' or titles like 'Bucho' as a suffix when talking to outsiders.

No, 'Joushi' is specifically a workplace term. In schools, students use 'Senpai' for older students and 'Sensei' for teachers. The principal is called 'Kouchou-sensei'. Teachers might refer to the principal as their 'Joushi' in a professional administrative context, but students would not.

It means 'direct supervisor' or 'immediate boss'. This is the person you report to directly every day, as opposed to higher-level managers who are still technically your 'joushi' but with whom you have less frequent contact.

Yes, 'Joushi' is a gender-neutral term. It applies to any superior regardless of gender. In recent years, the term 'Josei Joushi' (female boss) is sometimes used when specifically discussing gender dynamics in the workplace.

It is a neutral, standard word. It is not inherently 'polite' (keigo) or 'impolite'. However, because it refers to a superior, the sentences it appears in usually require polite or honorific grammar.

The opposite is 'Buka' (部下), which means subordinate. Just as you don't call your boss 'Joushi', you generally don't call your subordinates 'Buka' to their face; you use their name with '-san' or '-kun'.

If you are working at his company, he is your 'Joushi' in a professional context. However, in a family context, he is 'Chichi' or 'Otousan'. In the office, you would treat him as a 'Joushi' and use professional language.

It is very common in 'slice of life' or 'office' anime. It is often used by characters when they are complaining about work or discussing their career goals with friends.

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