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A1 noun #2,500 most common 6 min read

面接

mensetsu
Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 面接 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 面接 in your Level:
At the A1 level, you only need to know that 'mensetsu' means 'interview.' You might use it in very simple sentences like 'I have an interview' or 'The interview is at 10:00.' It is a useful word if you are looking for a part-time job in Japan. You don't need to worry about complex grammar; just focus on the noun and the basic verb 'ukeru' (to take). Think of it as a 'test meeting' for a job.
At the A2 level, you should be able to describe the interview briefly. You might say if it was 'difficult' (muzukashii) or 'easy' (kantan). You start to learn related words like 'mensetsukan' (interviewer). You should also be aware that you need to use polite Japanese (Desu/Masu) when talking about an interview, as it is a formal topic. You can use it to talk about your daily schedule or past experiences.
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At the B1 level, you can explain your feelings and preparation for an interview. You can use phrases like 'mensetsu no tame ni junbi suru' (prepare for the interview). You understand the difference between a job interview and a casual talk. You can also handle simple questions about your strengths and weaknesses in a basic interview setting. You start to use 'mensetsu' in compound sentences, such as 'Because I have an interview, I bought a new suit.'
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At the B2 level, you understand the nuances of different types of interviews, such as 'group interviews' or 'final interviews.' You can discuss the 'atmosphere' (fun'iki) of the interview and the 'intent' (ito) of the interviewer's questions. You are expected to use appropriate Keigo (honorifics) when simulating or discussing an interview. You can read job advertisements that list 'mensetsu' as part of the selection process and understand the steps involved.
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At the C1 level, you can analyze the 'mensetsu' process critically. You can discuss corporate hiring strategies, the effectiveness of interviews in predicting job performance, and cultural differences in interviewing styles. You can use advanced vocabulary like 'appaku mensetsu' (stress interview) or 'shibou douki' (statement of purpose) fluently. You are capable of conducting an interview in Japanese, using the correct level of formal language (Sonkeigo and Kenjougo).
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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of the term within the broader context of Japanese labor law and organizational psychology. You can discuss the legalities of interview questions, the socio-economic impact of 'shukatsu' (job hunting) culture, and the historical evolution of the 'mensetsu' system in Japan. You can articulate subtle critiques of the system using sophisticated rhetorical devices and academic terminology.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

面接 in 30 Seconds

  • Mensetsu is the standard Japanese word for a formal interview, used primarily for jobs and academic admissions.
  • It is a noun that combines 'face' and 'contact,' highlighting the importance of in-person evaluation in Japan.
  • The word is distinct from 'intabyuu,' which is used for media or journalistic purposes rather than evaluation.
  • Mastering 'mensetsu' involves understanding the associated etiquette, such as bowing and using formal Keigo.

The Japanese word 面接 (めんせつ - mensetsu) is a formal noun that refers to an interview. At its core, it describes a structured interaction where one party evaluates another, typically for employment, school admission, or a specific qualification. Unlike a casual chat or a general meeting (会議 - kaigi), a mensetsu is inherently evaluative and hierarchical. The kanji themselves offer a window into the meaning: 面 (men) means 'face' or 'surface,' and 接 (setsu) means 'to touch' or 'to come into contact with.' Thus, it literally translates to 'face-to-face contact,' emphasizing the importance of physical presence and direct interaction in the Japanese evaluation process.

Formal Definition
A systematic process of questioning and observation used to assess a candidate's suitability for a role.
Etymological Nuance
The combination of 'face' and 'contact' suggests that the true character of a person is revealed when meeting in person.
Social Weight
In Japan, a mensetsu is not just about skills; it is a test of character, manners (manner), and social harmony (wa).

明日、就職の面接があります。 (Ashita, shuushoku no mensetsu ga arimasu.) - I have a job interview tomorrow.

In the context of Japanese society, the mensetsu is the gateway to one's career and social standing. Whether it is the rigorous shukatsu (job hunting) season for university students or an entrance interview for a prestigious kindergarten, the word carries a sense of gravity and preparation. It is rarely used for casual journalistic interviews; for those, the loanword インタビュー (intabyuu) is preferred. Mensetsu implies a gatekeeper-applicant dynamic.

彼は面接で緊張してしまいました。 (Kare wa mensetsu de kinchou shite shimaimashita.) - He got nervous during the interview.

The word encompasses various formats: group interviews (集団面接 - shuudan mensetsu), individual interviews (個人面接 - kojin mensetsu), and even stress interviews (圧迫面接 - appaku mensetsu). Each type requires a different level of linguistic politeness (Keigo) and physical etiquette, such as the specific way one enters the room and bows. Understanding mensetsu is not just about the word; it is about understanding the Japanese 'culture of the gate.'

面接官は厳しい質問をしました。 (Mensetsukan wa kibishii shitsumon o shimashita.) - The interviewer asked tough questions.

Scope
Applies to jobs, schools, visas, and official certifications.
Tone
Highly formal and professional.

オンラインで面接を受ける。 (Onrain de mensetsu o ukeru.) - To take an interview online.

二次面接に進むことができました。 (Niji mensetsu ni susumu koto ga dekimashita.) - I was able to proceed to the second interview.

Using 面接 (mensetsu) correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a noun and a component of compound verbs. While it is primarily a noun, it frequently functions as a 'suru-verb' (面接する) when you are the one conducting the interview. If you are the candidate, you 'receive' the interview (面接を受ける - mensetsu o ukeru).

1. As a Noun

In its simplest form, it identifies the event. You can modify it with adjectives or other nouns to specify the type of interview.

  • 採用面接 (Saiyou mensetsu): Recruitment interview.
  • 最終面接 (Saishuu mensetsu): Final interview.
  • 面接試験 (Mensetsu shiken): Interview exam.

2. Common Verb Pairings

The choice of verb depends on your role in the interaction:

面接を受ける (Mensetsu o ukeru)
Used by the applicant/candidate. 'I am taking an interview.'
面接を行う (Mensetsu o okonau)
Used by the company/institution. 'To conduct an interview.'
面接に合格する (Mensetsu ni goukaku suru)
To pass the interview.

3. Syntactic Patterns

The most common pattern is [Organization] + の + 面接. For example, 'ABC社の面接' (ABC Company's interview). Another common pattern is [Purpose] + のための + 面接 (An interview for the purpose of...).

When describing the experience, Japanese speakers often use adverbs to qualify the atmosphere. For example, '和やかな面接' (nagonaka na mensetsu - a peaceful/friendly interview) or '重苦しい面接' (omokurushii mensetsu - a heavy/stifling interview). Because mensetsu is a formal event, the surrounding language should ideally be in Desu/Masu form or higher Keigo.

You will encounter 面接 in several distinct environments, each with its own set of expectations and sub-vocabulary. Understanding these contexts helps in predicting the type of Japanese you will need to use.

1. Corporate and Job Hunting (Shuukatsu)

This is the most frequent context. From career centers at universities to LinkedIn-style platforms in Japan (like Rikunabi or Mynavi), the word is ubiquitous. You will hear it in announcements: '面接室にお入りください' (Please enter the interview room).

2. Educational Institutions

Entrance exams for private schools, universities, and vocational colleges often include a mensetsu component. Here, the focus is on the student's motivation (志望動機 - shibou douki) and their fit for the school's culture.

3. Government and Administrative Offices

When applying for certain visas, permanent residency, or specific government licenses, an official mensetsu may be required. These are typically very dry, factual, and highly formal.

4. Media and News

While a celebrity interview is an intabyuu, a news report about a company's hiring practices or a political candidate being 'vetted' by a committee will use mensetsu. It implies a level of scrutiny that intabyuu lacks.

5. Part-time Jobs (Arubaito)

Even for simple roles like working at a convenience store, the initial meeting is called a mensetsu. However, the atmosphere is significantly less formal than a 'seishain' (full-time employee) interview.

Despite its straightforward meaning, learners often stumble on the nuances of 面接. Here are the most frequent pitfalls:

  • Confusing with 'Interview' (Journalism): Don't use mensetsu if you want to say 'I interviewed a famous author for my blog.' In that case, use インタビュー (intabyuu) or 取材 (shuzai). Mensetsu is specifically for evaluation/hiring.
  • Wrong Particle Usage: Learners often say '面接をします' when they mean they are the candidate. While not grammatically 'wrong,' it sounds like you are the one hiring. Use 面接を受けます (mensetsu o ukemasu) to be clear you are the applicant.
  • Mixing up 'Mensetsu' and 'Kaigi': A kaigi is a meeting among peers or colleagues to discuss business. A mensetsu is a one-way or two-way evaluation. You don't have a mensetsu with your current boss to discuss a project; that's a 面談 (mendan) or 打ち合わせ (uchiawase).
  • Inappropriate Register: Because a mensetsu is formal, using casual language (Tame-guchi) when talking about it in a professional setting can be seen as a lack of awareness of the word's weight.
  • Kanji Confusion: Be careful not to confuse 面 (face) with 画 (picture) or 接 (touch) with 節 (node/season).

Japanese has several words for 'meetings' or 'interviews,' and choosing the right one is crucial for sounding natural.

面談 (Mendan)
This is a 'consultation' or 'interview' that is usually less high-stakes than a mensetsu. It often happens between a teacher and a parent, or a manager and an employee for a performance review. It implies a discussion rather than a pass/fail test.
インタビュー (Intabyuu)
Used for media, journalism, or research. If you are asking someone questions to gather information for an article, this is the word.
取材 (Shuzai)
Specifically 'collecting data' or 'covering a story.' This is the professional term used by journalists for the act of interviewing and researching.
会談 (Kaidan)
A high-level 'conference' or 'talk,' usually between political leaders or top executives (e.g., a summit).
打ち合わせ (Uchiawase)
A business 'briefing' or 'preliminary meeting' to coordinate details. It is much more casual than a mensetsu.

How Formal Is It?

Difficulty Rating

Grammar to Know

Keigo (Honorifics)

Passive voice (for being asked questions)

~tame ni (Purpose)

~mae ni (Before)

~te shimau (Regret/Accident during interview)

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Examples by Level

1

面接は明日です。

The interview is tomorrow.

Simple [Noun] + wa + [Time] + desu structure.

2

面接に行きます。

I am going to an interview.

Target particle 'ni' used with the verb 'ikimasu'.

3

面接は何時ですか？

What time is the interview?

Question word 'nan-ji' (what time).

4

今日、面接があります。

I have an interview today.

Verb 'arimasu' indicates existence or possession of an event.

5

面接はどこですか？

Where is the interview?

Question word 'doko' (where).

6

面接、がんばってください。

Good luck with your interview.

Common phrase 'ganbatte kudasai' for encouragement.

7

面接は10時からです。

The interview starts at 10 o'clock.

Particle 'kara' means 'from'.

8

これは面接の服です。

These are clothes for an interview.

Particle 'no' connects the purpose to the object.

1

面接はとても緊張しました。

I was very nervous during the interview.

Past tense of 'kinchou suru'.

2

面接で何を聞かれましたか？

What were you asked in the interview?

Passive form 'kikaremashita' (was asked).

3

面接の練習をしましょう。

Let's practice for the interview.

Volitional form 'shimashou'.

4

面接官は優しい人でした。

The interviewer was a kind person.

Compound noun 'mensetsukan' (interviewer).

5

アルバイトの面接を受けます。

I will take an interview for a part-time job.

Verb 'ukeru' is the standard for taking an interview.

6

面接に遅れないでください。

Please don't be late for the interview.

Negative request form 'naide kudasai'.

7

面接は30分ぐらいでした。

The interview was about 30 minutes.

Counter 'pun' + 'gurai' (about).

8

面接の結果は来週です。

The result of the interview is next week.

Noun 'kekka' (result).

1

面接のために、新しいスーツを買いました。

I bought a new suit for the interview.

'~no tame ni' indicates purpose.

2

面接で自分の長所を話しました。

I talked about my strengths in the interview.

Noun 'chousho' (strengths).

3

面接の前に、会社のウェブサイトを見ました。

Before the interview, I looked at the company's website.

'~no mae ni' (before).

4

緊張して、面接でうまく話せませんでした。

I was nervous and couldn't speak well in the interview.

Potential negative form 'hanasemasen deshita'.

5

面接の連絡がメールで来ました。

The notification for the interview came by email.

Particle 'de' indicates the means (email).

6

次の面接はいつか教えてください。

Please tell me when the next interview is.

Embedded question 'itsu ka'.

7

面接では敬語を使わなければなりません。

You must use polite language in an interview.

'~nakereba narimasen' (must).

8

ズームで面接を受けるのは初めてです。

It's my first time taking an interview over Zoom.

Nominalizing 'ukeru' with 'no'.

1

一次面接を通過して、二次面接に進みました。

I passed the first interview and moved on to the second.

Verb 'tsuuka suru' (to pass/clear).

2

面接官の質問の意図を汲み取ることが大切だ。

It is important to grasp the intent of the interviewer's questions.

Phrase 'ito o kumitoru' (to grasp intent).

3

集団面接では、他の人の意見も聞く必要があります。

In a group interview, you need to listen to others' opinions as well.

Compound noun 'shuudan mensetsu'.

4

面接でのマナーが合否に大きく影響します。

Manners during the interview greatly affect the outcome.

Noun 'gouhi' (pass/fail result).

5

彼は面接で堂々と自分の意見を述べた。

He stated his opinion confidently in the interview.

Adverb 'dou-dou to' (confidently/majestically).

6

面接の最後に「何か質問はありますか」と聞かれた。

At the end of the interview, I was asked, 'Do you have any questions?'

Quotation particle 'to' with passive 'kikareta'.

7

志望動機を面接で論理的に説明した。

I explained my motivation for applying logically in the interview.

Adverb 'ronriteki ni' (logically).

8

圧迫面接に耐えられる精神力が必要です。

Mental strength to withstand a stress interview is necessary.

Compound noun 'appaku mensetsu'.

1

面接官は、応募者の潜在能力を見極めようとしている。

The interviewer is trying to discern the applicant's potential.

Verb 'mikiwameru' (to discern/see through).

2

面接における非言語コミュニケーションの重要性は高い。

The importance of non-verbal communication in interviews is high.

Formal particle 'ni okeru' (in/at).

3

最終面接では、社長自らが面接を行うことが多い。

In the final interview, the president often conducts the interview themselves.

Adverb 'mizukara' (oneself).

4

面接の評価基準が不透明であるという批判がある。

There is criticism that the evaluation criteria for interviews are opaque.

Noun 'hyouka kijun' (evaluation criteria).

5

模擬面接を繰り返すことで、受け答えがスムーズになった。

By repeating mock interviews, my responses became smoother.

Compound noun 'mogi mensetsu' (mock interview).

6

面接では、謙虚さと自己PRのバランスが難しい。

In an interview, the balance between humility and self-promotion is difficult.

Noun 'kenkyo' (humility) and 'jiko PR'.

7

オンライン面接の普及により、地方の学生も不利ではなくなった。

With the spread of online interviews, students in rural areas are no longer at a disadvantage.

Noun 'fukyuu' (spread/diffusion).

8

面接での発言が、後に契約の条件として考慮されることもある。

Statements made in an interview may later be considered as conditions of the contract.

Passive potential 'kouryo sareru'.

1

面接という儀式を通じて、組織への帰属意識が醸成される。

Through the ritual of the interview, a sense of belonging to the organization is fostered.

Verb 'jousei sareru' (to be fostered/brewed).

2

構造化面接を導入することで、採用のバイアスを排除する試みがなされている。

Attempts are being made to eliminate hiring bias by introducing structured interviews.

Compound 'kouzouka mensetsu' (structured interview).

3

面接官の主観的な評価が、企業の多様性を阻害する要因になり得る。

Subjective evaluations by interviewers can be a factor that hinders corporate diversity.

Verb 'sogai suru' (to hinder/obstruct).

4

就職活動における面接の過度な重視は、学業の疎かさを招いている。

The excessive emphasis on interviews in job hunting is leading to the neglect of academic studies.

Phrase 'osokara o manaku' (to lead to neglect).

5

面接でのパフォーマンスが実務能力と必ずしも相関しないという統計的データがある。

There is statistical data showing that interview performance does not necessarily correlate with practical ability.

Verb 'soukan suru' (to correlate).

6

面接における沈黙の時間は、文化圏によって異なる解釈をされる。

The duration of silence in an interview is interpreted differently depending on the culture.

Noun 'kaishaku' (interpretation).

7

AIによる面接評価システムの妥当性については、現在も議論が続いている。

The validity of AI-based interview evaluation systems is still being debated.

Noun 'dadousei' (validity).

8

面接は、単なる選考の場ではなく、企業理念を浸透させる広報の場でもある。

An interview is not just a place for selection, but also a public relations venue to instill corporate philosophy.

Verb 'shintou saseru' (to instill/permeate).

Synonyms

インタビュー 面談 会見 口述試験 ヒアリング

Antonyms

筆記試験 書類選考

Common Collocations

面接を受ける (Take an interview)
面接を行う (Conduct an interview)
面接に受かる (Pass an interview)
面接に落ちる (Fail an interview)
面接に呼ぶ (Call for an interview)
面接を予約する (Book an interview)
面接を延期する (Postpone an interview)
面接を辞退する (Decline an interview)
面接の準備 (Interview preparation)
面接の対策 (Interview strategy)

Common Phrases

面接試験 (Interview exam)
個人面接 (Individual interview)
集団面接 (Group interview)
最終面接 (Final interview)
一次面接 (First interview)
オンライン面接 (Online interview)
面接官 (Interviewer)
面接会場 (Interview venue)
面接時間 (Interview time)
面接の心得 (Interview etiquette/tips)

Often Confused With

面接 vs インタビュー

Used for media/journalism, not hiring.

面接 vs 面談

Less formal, often a consultation or review.

面接 vs 会議

A general business meeting among colleagues.

Idioms & Expressions

"面接の門を叩く (To knock on the door of an interview - to apply)"
"面接で自分を売る (To sell oneself in an interview)"
"面接の洗礼を受ける (To undergo the 'baptism' of an interview)"
"面接でボロが出る (To show one's flaws during an interview)"
"面接をパスする (To pass an interview)"
"面接の空気にのまれる (To be overwhelmed by the interview atmosphere)"
"面接で火花を散らす (To have a heated/intense interview interaction)"
"面接の感触がいい (To have a good feeling about an interview)"
"面接で肝を冷やす (To be chilled to the bone/terrified in an interview)"
"面接に全力を尽くす (To give one's all in an interview)"

Easily Confused

面接 vs

面接 vs

面接 vs

面接 vs

面接 vs

Sentence Patterns

Word Family

Related

面接官 (Interviewer)
面接室 (Interview room)
面接者 (Interviewee)
面接日 (Interview date)
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How to Use It

Verb Choice

Use 'ukeru' if you are the applicant.

Compound Nouns

Very common in business Japanese (e.g., 面接官, 面接日).

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'mensetsu' for a celebrity interview.
  • Saying 'mensetsu o suru' when you are the applicant.
  • Forgetting to use Keigo during the interview.
  • Wearing casual clothes to a 'mensetsu'.
  • Arriving exactly on time instead of early.

Tips

Bowing

Bow at 30 degrees when entering the room and 45 degrees when leaving.

Keigo

Use 'Watakushi' instead of 'Watashi' to sound more professional.

Research

Research the company's 'rinen' (philosophy) before the interview.

Posture

Sit up straight and don't cross your legs.

Arrival

Arrive at the building 10 minutes before the scheduled time.

Thank You

Sending a thank-you email after the interview is a nice touch.

Suit

Wear a clean, ironed suit, usually in dark colors.

Calmness

Take deep breaths; it's okay to take a moment before answering.

Documents

Bring a copy of your resume (rirekisho) in a clear folder.

Leaving

Don't forget to say 'Shitsurei itashimashita' before closing the door.

Memorize It

Word Origin

Sino-Japanese origin. Originally meant meeting face-to-face, evolved into the modern sense of a formal evaluation in the Meiji era.

Cultural Context

The use of humble and honorific Japanese is non-negotiable.

Arriving exactly 5-10 minutes early is mandatory.

Standardized attire for students during job hunting.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Conversation Starters

"面接はどうでしたか？ (How was the interview?)"

"面接の準備はできましたか？ (Are you ready for the interview?)"

"どんな面接の質問が難しいですか？ (What kind of interview questions are difficult?)"

"面接で緊張しない方法はありますか？ (Is there a way to not get nervous in an interview?)"

"次の面接はいつですか？ (When is your next interview?)"

Journal Prompts

Write about your most memorable interview experience.

Describe how you prepare for a formal meeting in Japanese.

Compare interviews in your country with Japanese 'mensetsu'.

What are your strengths that you would mention in an interview?

How did you feel after your last interview?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is also used for school admissions and official certifications.

Usually 'mendan' or 'uchiawase' is better unless it's a formal promotion interview.

A 'stress interview' where the interviewer is intentionally mean or difficult.

In Japan, a suit is expected for almost all professional interviews.

'Mensetsu' is for evaluation; 'intabyuu' is for information gathering.

'Mensetsu ni goukaku shimashita' or 'Mensetsu ni ukarimashita'.

Yes, 'mensetsu suru' means to conduct an interview.

It is called 'shuudan mensetsu'.

No, use 'mensetsu o okonau' or 'mensetsu suru'.

Yes, but it still refers to a formal event.

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