お巡りさん in 30 Seconds

  • お巡りさん (o-mawari-san) is a colloquial Japanese term for a police officer.
  • It's informal and often used by children or in friendly, everyday conversations.
  • It conveys approachability and familiarity, unlike more formal terms.
  • Use it in casual settings; for formal situations, 警察官 (keisatsukan) is preferred.
Definition
An informal and affectionate term for a police officer, commonly used in everyday conversation, particularly by children or when speaking in a friendly, non-official manner.
Origin
The term originates from the honorific suffix '-san' (さん), which is appended to the word 'omawarishikō' (おまわりしこう), an old term for a patrol officer. It evolved into a more casual and familiar way to refer to police officers.
Usage Context
You will hear this term frequently in casual settings, such as when children are talking about seeing a police officer, or when adults are recounting an event where they interacted with law enforcement in a non-confrontational way. It carries a sense of approachability and familiarity, unlike more formal terms.

子供が道に迷った時、お巡りさんに助けを求めました。

When the child got lost, they asked the police officer for help.

公園でお巡りさんがパトロールしていました。

A police officer was patrolling in the park.
Nuance
It's similar to calling a police officer 'a cop' in English, but generally more polite and less likely to be perceived as derogatory. It's a term that evokes a sense of community safety and reassurance.

迷子のアナウンスを聞いて、お巡りさんが駆けつけてくれた。

Hearing the announcement about the lost child, the police officer rushed over.
Subject
The word 'お巡りさん' can function as the subject of a sentence, indicating that the police officer is performing an action. This is common when describing police presence or their assistance.

お巡りさんが怪しい人物を尋問していた。

The police officer was questioning a suspicious person.
Object
It can also be the object of a verb, especially when one is interacting with or seeking help from a police officer.

困っていたら、お巡りさんに相談しました。

When I was in trouble, I consulted with the police officer.
With Particles
The particle 'に' (ni) is often used to indicate who is being addressed or who is providing assistance.

お巡りさんに道を尋ねました。

I asked the police officer for directions.
Describing Actions
It can be used in sentences describing general police activities, especially those that are visible to the public.

街角でお巡りさんが交通整理をしていた。

A police officer was directing traffic at the street corner.
In Questions
It can be used in questions seeking information or assistance from a police officer.

すみません、お巡りさん、この辺に交番はありますか?

Excuse me, officer, is there a police box around here?
Children's Conversations
This is perhaps the most common place to hear 'お巡りさん'. Children often use this term when referring to police officers they see on the street, in parks, or in educational settings like school visits. It's a gentle and non-intimidating word for them.

「見て!お巡りさんが犬の散歩をしてる!」

"Look! An officer is walking a dog!"
Casual Everyday Talk
Adults might use 'お巡りさん' in casual conversations, especially when recounting a minor incident or when referring to police officers in a friendly or anecdotal way. It's a term that doesn't carry the weight of formality.

昨日、駅前でお巡りさんに道を聞いたんだ。

Yesterday, I asked an officer for directions in front of the station.
Local Community News
In local news reports or community announcements, especially those aimed at a general audience, 'お巡りさん' might be used to refer to police officers involved in community outreach or minor incidents.

地域の安全のために、お巡りさんがパトロールを強化しています。

To ensure community safety, police officers are strengthening patrols.
Media Depictions
In Japanese dramas, anime, or manga, 'お巡りさん' is frequently used to portray police officers in a relatable and approachable manner, especially in slice-of-life or comedic genres.

アニメで主人公が困った時にいつもお巡りさんに助けられていた。

In the anime, the main character was always helped by the police officer when in trouble.
Using it in Formal Situations
Mistake: Using 'お巡りさん' when speaking to a police officer in an official capacity, or when writing a formal report. Correctness: In formal settings, it's better to use the more neutral and official term '警察官' (keisatsukan). While 'お巡りさん' is generally understood and not offensive, it lacks the gravitas and professionalism expected in official interactions.

Mistake: 「お巡りさん、私を逮捕してください。」(Officer, please arrest me.)

Correct: 「警察官の方、私を逮捕してください。」(Police officer, please arrest me.)
Assuming It's Always Affectionate
Mistake: Thinking 'お巡りさん' is always a term of endearment. Correctness: While often used affectionately, especially by children, it can also be used neutrally. The context and tone of voice are crucial. It's not a term typically used by criminals or in situations of severe conflict.

A criminal might not refer to the arresting officer as 'お巡りさん'.

This term implies a level of respect or familiarity that might not exist in a confrontational scenario.
Confusing it with Other Titles
Mistake: Using 'お巡りさん' for other public service personnel. Correctness: 'お巡りさん' specifically refers to police officers. It is not used for firefighters, ambulance personnel, or other civil servants.

Mistake: 「火事の時、お巡りさんが消火してくれた。」(When there was a fire, the police officer put it out.)

Correct: 「火事の時、消防士が消火してくれた。」(When there was a fire, the firefighter put it out.)
警察官 (Keisatsukan)
Meaning: Police officer (standard, neutral term).
Register: Formal and neutral. This is the most common and appropriate term in official contexts, news reports, and general descriptions of police personnel.
Example: 「彼は警察官になりたいと言っていた。」(He said he wants to become a police officer.)
警官 (Keikan)
Meaning: Police officer (slightly more concise than 警察官).
Register: Neutral to slightly formal. Often used in written contexts or when brevity is desired.
Example: 「事件現場には複数の警官がいた。」(There were several officers at the crime scene.)
ポリス (Porisu)
Meaning: Police (loanword from English).
Register: Informal, often used in specific contexts like media, or when referring to foreign police forces. It's not a common way to refer to Japanese police officers in everyday conversation.
Example: 「アメリカのポリスは銃を持っている。」(American police officers carry guns.)
おまわり (Omawari)
Meaning: Police officer (very colloquial, shortened form).
Register: Highly informal, slang-like. Used among friends or in very casual settings. Can sometimes carry a slightly rougher connotation than 'お巡りさん'.
Example: 「あ、おまわりが来たぞ!」(Oh, the cops are here!)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The term 'お巡りさん' is so ingrained in Japanese culture that it's often used by children to refer to police officers, similar to how children might use terms like 'cop' or 'policeman' in English, but with a softer, more respectful connotation. It evokes a sense of community safety and approachable authority.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /oʊ.mɑ.wɑ.ri.sɑn/
US /oʊ.mɑ.wɑ.ri.sɑn/
There is no strong stress on any particular syllable in Japanese words; the rhythm is more even across the syllables.
Rhymes With
san kan ran man tan han nan ban pan zan
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'o' as a short vowel.
  • Adding an English 'r' sound to 'ri'.
  • Pronouncing 'san' with a nasal 'n' sound like in English 'sang'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word 'お巡りさん' itself is relatively easy to recognize and understand in context, especially in informal written materials like manga or children's stories. Its meaning is usually clear from the surrounding sentences and the visual cues often present in these media. However, distinguishing its nuance from more formal terms requires a deeper understanding of Japanese registers.

Writing 2/5

Writing 'お巡りさん' correctly is straightforward. The challenge lies in knowing when it is appropriate to use it. Learners need to understand the informal and friendly context it implies and avoid using it in formal writing or official communications where '警察官' would be required.

Speaking 2/5

Pronouncing 'お巡りさん' is not difficult. The main aspect for learners is to use it naturally in conversation. It's best suited for casual interactions, and using it inappropriately might sound odd or too informal for the situation.

Listening 2/5

Recognizing 'お巡りさん' when spoken is relatively easy, especially in contexts where children are speaking or in casual everyday conversations. Its distinct sound and common usage make it identifiable.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

さん (san - honorific suffix) 警察 (keisatsu - police) 人 (hito - person)

Learn Next

警察官 (keisatsukan - police officer) 交番 (kōban - police box) パトロール (patorōru - patrol)

Advanced

職務質問 (shokumu shitsumon - police questioning) 検挙 (kenkyo - arrest/apprehension) 捜査 (sōsa - investigation)

Grammar to Know

Particles like に (ni) and が (ga) with nouns.

お巡りさん聞く (ask the police officer). お巡りさんいる (a police officer is present).

The use of the honorific suffix '-san'.

The '-san' in お巡りさん adds politeness and familiarity, similar to Mr./Ms. but used more broadly.

Using possessive with 'の' (no).

お巡りさん制服 (the police officer's uniform).

Verb conjugation for ongoing actions (-te iru form).

お巡りさんがパトロールしている (a police officer is patrolling).

Requesting permission with '-temo ii desu ka'.

お巡りさんに聞いてもいいですか? (May I ask the police officer?)

Examples by Level

1

お巡りさん、こんにちは。

Hello, officer.

Basic greeting with the informal term for police officer.

2

公園にお巡りさんがいる。

There is a police officer in the park.

Using 'にお巡りさん' to indicate presence in a location.

3

お巡りさん、ありがとう。

Thank you, officer.

Expressing gratitude to the police officer.

4

お巡りさんがパトロールしている。

A police officer is patrolling.

Describing the action of patrolling.

5

子供がお巡りさんを見て手を振った。

The child saw the police officer and waved.

Connecting seeing and waving with the police officer.

6

お巡りさん、助けてください!

Officer, please help me!

A plea for help using the informal term.

7

お巡りさんは優しい。

The police officer is kind.

Describing the characteristic of the police officer.

8

お巡りさんの自転車はかっこいい。

The police officer's bicycle is cool.

Possessive form with 'の' to describe the officer's bicycle.

1

迷子になったので、お巡りさんに聞きました。

I got lost, so I asked the police officer.

Using 'に' to indicate the recipient of an action (asking).

2

お巡りさんが交通整理をしています。

A police officer is directing traffic.

Using the '-te iru' form to describe an ongoing action.

3

この辺で一番近い交番はどこですか?お巡りさんに聞いてもいいですか?

Where is the nearest police box around here? May I ask a police officer?

Asking for permission to ask a question using 'てもいいですか'.

4

お巡りさんはいつも街を見守ってくれている。

Police officers always watch over the town.

Using 'てくれる' to express that the officer does something for the community.

5

子供たちはお巡りさんの制服に興味津々だった。

The children were very interested in the police officer's uniform.

Using 'に興味津々' to express great interest.

6

事件について、お巡りさんが詳しく話を聞いてくれた。

The police officer listened carefully to the details of the incident.

Using 'てくれた' to show the officer's helpful action.

7

お巡りさん、落とし物を拾っていただきました。

Officer, I had a lost item returned to me.

Using the humble form 'いただきました' when receiving a favor.

8

お巡りさんがサイレンを鳴らして、急いで行った。

The police officer sounded the siren and hurried away.

Describing sequential actions: sounding the siren and hurrying.

1

公園で子供がはぐれてしまい、近くにいたお巡りさんに保護された。

A child got separated in the park and was taken care of by a police officer who was nearby.

Using the passive form '保護された' (was taken care of) and '近くにいた' (who was nearby).

2

お巡りさんは、地域住民からの相談に親身になって対応していた。

The police officer was sincerely responding to consultations from community residents.

Using '親身になって対応する' to describe a dedicated response.

3

交通違反の切符を切られそうになったが、お巡りさんの寛大な処置に感謝している。

I was about to get a ticket for a traffic violation, but I am grateful for the police officer's lenient treatment.

Using '~られそうになった' (was about to be) and '寛大な処置' (lenient treatment).

4

子供の頃、お巡りさんに憧れて、将来は自分もそうなりたいと思ったものだ。

When I was a child, I admired police officers and used to think I wanted to become one myself in the future.

Using '~たものだ' to express a nostalgic thought or feeling.

5

お巡りさんの丁寧な説明のおかげで、事件の概要を理解することができた。

Thanks to the police officer's polite explanation, I was able to understand the outline of the incident.

Using '~のおかげで' (thanks to) and '概要を理解する' (understand the outline).

6

地域のお祭りでは、お巡りさんも子供たちと交流する姿が見られた。

At the local festival, police officers were also seen interacting with children.

Using '姿が見られた' (was seen) to describe a visible scene.

7

お巡りさんの迅速な対応が、被害の拡大を防ぐ上で非常に重要だった。

The police officer's swift response was crucial in preventing the escalation of damage.

Using '迅速な対応' (swift response) and '被害の拡大を防ぐ' (prevent escalation of damage).

8

お巡りさんに職務質問を受けたが、特に問題はなかった。

I was questioned by a police officer, but there were no particular problems.

Using '職務質問を受ける' (to be questioned by police) and '特に問題はなかった' (no particular problems).

1

お巡りさんが、防犯カメラの映像を確認しながら、被疑者の行方を追っていた。

The police officer was tracking the suspect's whereabouts while reviewing the security camera footage.

Using '~ながら' (while) and '行方を追う' (track whereabouts).

2

お巡りさんの冷静な判断と的確な指示により、現場の混乱は最小限に抑えられた。

Due to the police officer's calm judgment and precise instructions, the chaos at the scene was minimized.

Using '~により' (due to) and '最小限に抑えられた' (was minimized).

3

お巡りさんは、子供たちに交通安全の重要性を、寸劇を交えて分かりやすく説明していた。

The police officer was explaining the importance of traffic safety to the children in an easy-to-understand manner, incorporating short skits.

Using '~を交えて' (incorporating) and '分かりやすく説明する' (explain in an easy-to-understand manner).

4

お巡りさんの長年の経験に裏打ちされた洞察力は、事件解決の糸口となった。

The police officer's insight, backed by years of experience, became the clue to solving the case.

Using '~に裏打ちされた' (backed by) and '洞察力' (insight), '糸口となった' (became the clue).

5

お巡りさんは、単なる法執行者としてではなく、地域社会の安全を守るパートナーとして認識されている。

Police officers are recognized not just as law enforcers, but as partners who protect the safety of the community.

Using '~としてではなく~として認識されている' (recognized not as... but as) and '法執行者' (law enforcer).

6

お巡りさんが、不審者に関する情報を地域住民に注意喚起していた。

The police officer was alerting community residents about suspicious individuals.

Using '注意喚起する' (to alert/raise awareness) and '不審者' (suspicious person).

7

お巡りさんは、困難な状況下でも常に市民の安全を最優先に行動する。

Even under difficult circumstances, police officers always act with the safety of citizens as their top priority.

Using '困難な状況下でも' (even under difficult circumstances) and '最優先に行動する' (act with top priority).

8

お巡りさんの献身的な姿勢は、多くの人々に感銘を与えている。

The police officer's dedicated attitude has impressed many people.

Using '献身的な姿勢' (dedicated attitude) and '感銘を与える' (to impress).

1

お巡りさんが、地域住民との信頼関係構築に尽力しており、その結果、犯罪発生率の低下に寄与しているという報告がある。

There are reports that police officers are making efforts to build trust with community residents, and as a result, this contributes to a decrease in the crime rate.

Using '尽力しており' (making efforts), '信頼関係構築' (building trust), and '寄与している' (contributes to).

2

お巡りさんの長年の経験と地域への深い理解が、事件解決の糸口を見出す上で不可欠な要素となっている。

The police officer's years of experience and deep understanding of the community have become indispensable elements in finding clues to solve cases.

Using '長年の経験' (years of experience), '深い理解' (deep understanding), '不可欠な要素' (indispensable elements), and '事件解決の糸口を見出す' (find clues to solve cases).

3

お巡りさんは、単に法を執行するだけでなく、地域社会の福祉増進にも貢献しており、その多岐にわたる役割は高く評価されている。

Police officers not only enforce the law but also contribute to the promotion of community welfare, and their multifaceted roles are highly appreciated.

Using '単に~だけでなく~にも貢献しており' (not only... but also contributes to), '福祉増進' (promotion of welfare), and '多岐にわたる役割' (multifaceted roles).

4

お巡りさんの細やかな配慮と迅速な初動対応が、二次被害の発生を未然に防ぐ上で極めて重要であった。

The police officer's meticulous consideration and prompt initial response were extremely important in preventing secondary damage from occurring.

Using '細やかな配慮' (meticulous consideration), '初動対応' (initial response), '二次被害の発生を未然に防ぐ' (prevent secondary damage from occurring), and '極めて重要であった' (was extremely important).

5

お巡りさんが、地域住民の不安を払拭するために、定期的なパトロールと丁寧な情報提供を怠らない姿勢は、模範的である。

The police officer's commitment to not neglecting regular patrols and thorough information provision to alleviate community residents' anxieties is exemplary.

Using '不安を払拭する' (alleviate anxieties), '丁寧な情報提供' (thorough information provision), '怠らない姿勢' (attitude of not neglecting), and '模範的である' (is exemplary).

6

お巡りさんは、現代社会における多様な課題に対し、柔軟かつ包括的なアプローチで対応しており、その専門性は高く評価されている。

Police officers are responding to the diverse challenges of modern society with flexible and comprehensive approaches, and their expertise is highly valued.

Using '多様な課題' (diverse challenges), '柔軟かつ包括的なアプローチ' (flexible and comprehensive approaches), and '専門性は高く評価されている' (expertise is highly valued).

7

お巡りさんの、地域社会の安全と秩序維持に対する揺るぎない献身は、市民からの厚い信頼を得る基盤となっている。

The police officer's unwavering dedication to maintaining the safety and order of the community has become the foundation for earning deep trust from citizens.

Using '揺るぎない献身' (unwavering dedication), '安全と秩序維持' (maintaining safety and order), '厚い信頼を得る基盤' (foundation for earning deep trust).

8

お巡りさんが、地域住民との対話を通じて得た情報を基に、効果的な防犯戦略を立案・実行している。

Based on the information obtained through dialogue with community residents, police officers are planning and implementing effective crime prevention strategies.

Using '対話を通じて得た情報' (information obtained through dialogue), '効果的な防犯戦略' (effective crime prevention strategies), and '立案・実行している' (planning and implementing).

1

お巡りさんの、地域社会の持続的な発展と安全確保に対する多角的かつ戦略的なアプローチは、単なる職務遂行を超えた、地域との共生を体現している。

The police officer's multifaceted and strategic approach to the sustainable development and safety assurance of the community embodies coexistence with the region, going beyond mere job performance.

Using '持続的な発展' (sustainable development), '安全確保' (safety assurance), '多角的かつ戦略的なアプローチ' (multifaceted and strategic approach), '単なる職務遂行を超えた' (going beyond mere job performance), and '地域との共生を体現している' (embodies coexistence with the region).

2

お巡りさんが、複雑化する現代社会における諸問題に対し、先見の明をもって、先制的な介入と包括的な支援を組み合わせた解決策を提示する能力は、極めて高度である。

The police officer's ability to present solutions that combine preemptive intervention and comprehensive support with foresight for the various problems in increasingly complex modern society is extremely advanced.

Using '複雑化する現代社会' (increasingly complex modern society), '諸問題' (various problems), '先見の明をもって' (with foresight), '先制的な介入' (preemptive intervention), '包括的な支援' (comprehensive support), and '極めて高度である' (is extremely advanced).

3

お巡りさんの、地域住民一人ひとりの声に真摯に耳を傾け、その潜在的なニーズを的確に把握する洞察力は、効果的な政策立案の礎となっている。

The police officer's insight, which involves sincerely listening to the voices of each community resident and accurately grasping their potential needs, serves as the cornerstone for effective policy formulation.

Using '一人ひとりの声に真摯に耳を傾け' (sincerely listening to the voices of each person), '潜在的なニーズを的確に把握する' (accurately grasp potential needs), and '効果的な政策立案の礎となっている' (serves as the cornerstone for effective policy formulation).

4

お巡りさんの、地域社会の安全網を強化し、あらゆる脅威に対するレジリエンスを高めるための、先見的かつ協調的な取り組みは、模範的と呼ぶにふさわしい。

The police officer's proactive and collaborative efforts to strengthen the community's safety net and enhance resilience against all threats are worthy of being called exemplary.

Using '安全網を強化し' (strengthen the safety net), 'あらゆる脅威に対するレジリエンスを高める' (enhance resilience against all threats), '先見的かつ協調的な取り組み' (proactive and collaborative efforts), and '模範的と呼ぶにふさわしい' (worthy of being called exemplary).

5

お巡りさんが、地域住民との間に築き上げた強固な信頼関係は、犯罪抑止力向上のみならず、地域全体の結束力を高める上で不可欠な要素となっている。

The strong trust relationship built by the police officer with community residents has become an indispensable element not only for improving crime deterrence but also for enhancing the overall cohesion of the community.

Using '強固な信頼関係' (strong trust relationship), '犯罪抑止力向上' (improving crime deterrence), '地域全体の結束力を高める' (enhancing the overall cohesion of the community), and '不可欠な要素となっている' (has become an indispensable element).

6

お巡りさんの、変化し続ける社会情勢を的確に分析し、それに対応した革新的な policing 手法を導入する能力は、現代の法執行機関にとって極めて重要である。

The police officer's ability to accurately analyze ever-changing social conditions and introduce innovative policing methods in response is extremely important for modern law enforcement agencies.

Using '変化し続ける社会情勢' (ever-changing social conditions), '的確に分析し' (accurately analyze), '革新的な policing 手法' (innovative policing methods), and '極めて重要である' (is extremely important).

7

お巡りさんの、地域社会の多様なニーズに応えるための、包括的かつ個別化されたアプローチは、住民の安心感の醸成に大きく貢献している。

The police officer's comprehensive and individualized approach to meeting the diverse needs of the community significantly contributes to fostering residents' sense of security.

Using '多様なニーズに応える' (to meet diverse needs), '包括的かつ個別化されたアプローチ' (comprehensive and individualized approach), and '安心感の醸成に大きく貢献している' (significantly contributes to fostering a sense of security).

8

お巡りさんが、地域住民との連携を深め、情報共有を促進することで、潜在的なリスクを早期に察知し、未然に防ぐ体制を構築している。

By deepening collaboration with community residents and promoting information sharing, police officers are building a system to detect potential risks early and prevent them before they occur.

Using '連携を深め' (deepening collaboration), '情報共有を促進する' (promoting information sharing), '潜在的なリスクを早期に察知し' (detect potential risks early), and '未然に防ぐ体制を構築している' (building a system to prevent before they occur).

Common Collocations

お巡りさんに聞く (Omawari-san ni kiku)
お巡りさんがパトロールする (Omawari-san ga patorōru suru)
お巡りさんに助けを求める (Omawari-san ni tasuke o motomeru)
お巡りさんの制服 (Omawari-san no seifuku)
お巡りさんの自転車 (Omawari-san no jitensha)
お巡りさんが交通整理をする (Omawari-san ga kōtsū seiri o suru)
お巡りさんに道を尋ねる (Omawari-san ni michi o tazuneru)
お巡りさんが話を聞く (Omawari-san ga hanashi o kiku)
お巡りさんのように (Omawari-san no yō ni)
お巡りさんの注意を引く (Omawari-san no chūi o hiku)

Common Phrases

お巡りさん、こんにちは。

— Hello, officer.

子供が道端でお巡りさんに元気よく挨拶した。 (The child greeted the police officer cheerfully on the roadside.)

お巡りさん、すみません。

— Excuse me, officer.

道に迷ったので、お巡りさん、すみませんと声をかけた。 (I got lost, so I called out, 'Excuse me, officer.')

お巡りさんに聞く。

— To ask a police officer.

何か分からないことがあれば、お巡りさんに聞くのが一番です。 (If there's anything you don't understand, asking a police officer is the best way.)

お巡りさんがいる。

— There is a police officer.

交差点にはいつもお巡りさんがいる。 (There is always a police officer at the intersection.)

お巡りさんに助けられた。

— Was helped by a police officer.

落とし物を拾ってくれたのは、通りすがりの優しいお巡りさんだった。 (It was a kind police officer passing by who returned my lost item.)

お巡りさんのように強くなりたい。

— I want to become strong like a police officer.

ヒーローに憧れる子供は、よくお巡りさんのように強くなりたいと言う。 (Children who admire heroes often say they want to become strong like police officers.)

お巡りさん、この辺に交番はありますか?

— Officer, is there a police box around here?

旅行者が地図を見ながら、お巡りさん、この辺に交番はありますか?と尋ねた。 (The tourist, looking at a map, asked, 'Officer, is there a police box around here?')

お巡りさんがパトロールしている。

— A police officer is patrolling.

夜遅くまで、お巡りさんがパトロールしているおかげで安心して眠れる。 (Thanks to the police officer patrolling late into the night, I can sleep with peace of mind.)

お巡りさんが見守ってくれている。

— The police officer is watching over us.

この街では、いつもお巡りさんが見守ってくれている気がする。 (I feel like the police officer is always watching over us in this town.)

お巡りさん、ありがとう。

— Thank you, officer.

無事に家に帰れたのは、親切なお巡りさんのおかげだ。お巡りさん、ありがとう。 (I was able to return home safely thanks to the kind police officer. Thank you, officer.)

Often Confused With

お巡りさん vs 警察官 (Keisatsukan)

'お巡りさん' is an informal, colloquial term, while '警察官' is the standard, neutral, and formal term for a police officer. You would use '警察官' in official reports or formal settings, whereas 'お巡りさん' is for friendly, everyday use.

お巡りさん vs おまわり (Omawari)

'おまわり' is a shortened, slang-like version of 'お巡りさん'. It's even more informal and can sometimes carry a slightly rougher connotation. 'お巡りさん' is generally softer and more widely accepted in friendly contexts.

お巡りさん vs 消防士 (Shōbōshi - Firefighter)

This is a completely different profession. 'お巡りさん' specifically refers to police officers, while '消防士' refers to firefighters. Confusing them would be a basic vocabulary error.

Idioms & Expressions

"お巡りさんの顔を見る"

— To see the police; to be caught by the police. This phrase implies that one has done something wrong or is in a situation where encountering the police is notable or undesirable.

そんな悪いことをしたら、すぐにお巡りさんの顔を見ることになるよ。 (If you do something that bad, you'll soon see the police officer's face.)

Informal
"お巡りさんに捕まる (Omawari-san ni tsukamaru)"

— To be caught by the police. A direct and common phrase used when someone is apprehended by law enforcement.

万引きをしたら、すぐにお巡りさんに捕まってしまった。 (When I shoplifted, I was immediately caught by the police officer.)

Informal
"お巡りさんのように"

— Like a police officer. This is often used by children when expressing a desire to be strong, helpful, or to protect others, emulating the perceived role of a police officer.

将来は、困っている人を助けるお巡りさんのようになりたい。 (In the future, I want to become like a police officer who helps people in need.)

Child-friendly, Informal
"お巡りさんの自転車に乗る"

— To ride on a police officer's bicycle. This is a whimsical or imaginative phrase, often used in children's stories or games, symbolizing a fun or exciting experience related to the police.

夢の中で、お巡りさんの自転車に乗って街を駆け巡った。 (In my dream, I rode on a police officer's bicycle and raced through the town.)

Child-friendly, Figurative
"お巡りさんの目を盗む (Omawari-san no me o nusumu)"

— To do something stealthily, trying to avoid being seen by the police. It implies trying to get away with something illicit or mischievous.

こっそりお菓子を食べるために、お巡りさんの目を盗んで部屋にこもった。 (To secretly eat snacks, I snuck into my room, trying to avoid the police officer's eyes.)

Informal, Figurative
"お巡りさん、お巡りさん、助けて!"

— Officer, officer, help! A common exclamation of distress or a call for assistance directed towards a police officer, often heard in dramatic scenarios or from children in distress.

迷子になった子供が、泣きながら「お巡りさん、お巡りさん、助けて!」と叫んだ。 (The lost child, crying, shouted, 'Officer, officer, help!')

Exclamatory, Informal
"お巡りさんのように勇敢に"

— Bravely like a police officer. This phrase is used to describe someone acting with courage and determination, often in the face of danger or difficulty.

彼は、お巡りさんのように勇敢に火事現場に飛び込んだ。 (He bravely rushed into the burning building like a police officer.)

Figurative, Admiring
"お巡りさんのサイレンが聞こえる"

— To hear the police siren. This phrase signifies the presence or approach of police, often associated with an emergency or law enforcement activity.

遠くからお巡りさんのサイレンが聞こえてきた。 (The police siren could be heard from a distance.)

Descriptive, Common
"お巡りさんの視線を感じる"

— To feel the gaze of a police officer. This can imply suspicion, being watched, or a general awareness of police presence.

怪しいことをしていたら、すぐにお巡りさんの視線を感じた。 (When I was doing something suspicious, I immediately felt the gaze of the police officer.)

Figurative, Informal
"お巡りさんのように街を守る"

— To protect the town like a police officer. This expresses a desire or action to safeguard the community, often in a heroic or responsible manner.

ボランティア活動を通じて、お巡りさんのように街を守ることに貢献したい。 (Through volunteer activities, I want to contribute to protecting the town like a police officer.)

Aspirational, Figurative

Easily Confused

お巡りさん vs 警察官 (Keisatsukan)

Both refer to a police officer.

'お巡りさん' is informal, friendly, and often used by children or in casual conversation, implying approachability. '警察官' is the standard, neutral, and formal term used in official contexts, news, and general descriptions.

子供は<strong>お巡りさん</strong>と呼ぶが、ニュースでは<strong>警察官</strong>の活躍が報じられる。

お巡りさん vs おまわり (Omawari)

Both are colloquial terms for police officers.

'お巡りさん' is a polite, familiar, and widely accepted informal term. 'おまわり' is a more truncated, slang-like version that can sound a bit rougher or more casual, sometimes used among friends.

<strong>お巡りさん</strong>は優しいが、<strong>おまわり</strong>という言葉は少し乱暴に聞こえることもある。

お巡りさん vs 巡査 (Junsá)

'お巡りさん' is derived from terms related to patrol officers.

'巡査' is an older, more formal term for a patrolman. 'お巡りさん' is a modern, colloquial, and more approachable term that evolved from it, adding the honorific '-san' for familiarity.

昔は<strong>巡査</strong>と呼ばれたが、今は<strong>お巡りさん</strong>と親しまれている。

お巡りさん vs 交通整理員 (Kōtsū seiri-in - Traffic controller)

Both may be seen directing traffic.

'お巡りさん' is a police officer, who has the authority to direct traffic as part of their duties. A '交通整理員' is specifically hired for traffic management, often at construction sites or events, and does not have the broader authority of a police officer.

交差点では<strong>お巡りさん</strong>が交通整理をしていたが、工事現場では<strong>交通整理員</strong>がいた。

お巡りさん vs 警備員 (Keibi-in - Security guard)

Both are figures of authority and public presence.

'お巡りさん' is a police officer with legal authority to enforce laws. A '警備員' is a private security professional focused on guarding property or ensuring order in a specific location, without law enforcement powers.

デパートの入り口には<strong>警備員</strong>がいたが、事件現場には<strong>お巡りさん</strong>がいた。

Sentence Patterns

A1

お巡りさん、こんにちは。

お巡りさん、こんにちは。いい天気ですね。 (Hello, officer. It's nice weather, isn't it?)

A1

お巡りさんがいます。

公園にお巡りさんがいます。 (There is a police officer in the park.)

A2

お巡りさんに聞きました。

道に迷ったので、お巡りさんに聞きました。 (I got lost, so I asked the police officer.)

A2

お巡りさんが~ています。

お巡りさんが交通整理をしています。 (A police officer is directing traffic.)

B1

お巡りさんに助けられました。

落とし物を拾ってくれたお巡りさんに助けられました。 (I was helped by a police officer who found my lost item.)

B1

お巡りさんのように~たい。

子供の頃、お巡りさんのように強くなりたいと思っていました。 (When I was a child, I wanted to become strong like a police officer.)

B2

お巡りさんの~おかげで。

お巡りさんの丁寧な説明のおかげで、事件の概要を理解できました。 (Thanks to the police officer's polite explanation, I was able to understand the outline of the incident.)

C1

お巡りさんが~に寄与している。

お巡りさんが地域住民との信頼関係構築に尽力しており、犯罪発生率の低下に寄与している。 (Police officers are working hard to build trust with community residents, contributing to a decrease in the crime rate.)

Word Family

Nouns

警察官 (keisatsukan - police officer)
警官 (keikan - officer)
交番 (kōban - police box)

Verbs

巡回する (junkai suru - to patrol)
取り締まる (torishimaru - to police, to enforce)
保護する (hogo suru - to protect, to rescue)

Adjectives

優しい (yasashii - kind)
勇敢な (yūkan na - brave)
真面目な (majime na - serious, diligent)

Related

おまわり (omawari - colloquial, shortened term for police officer)
婦警さん (fukei-san - female police officer, somewhat dated)
パトカー (patokā - patrol car)
制服 (seifuku - uniform)
職務質問 (shokumu shitsumon - police questioning)

How to Use It

frequency

High in informal spoken Japanese, especially when children are involved or in casual conversation about everyday encounters with police.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'お巡りさん' in a formal report. 警察官 (Keisatsukan)

    Using the informal term 'お巡りさん' in a formal context like a police report or official document is inappropriate. The formal term '警察官' should be used to maintain professionalism and accuracy.

  • Confusing 'お巡りさん' with '消防士' (firefighter). お巡りさん (Police officer) vs. 消防士 (Firefighter)

    'お巡りさん' specifically refers to police officers responsible for law enforcement and public order. '消防士' refers to firefighters who combat fires and rescue people from dangerous situations. They are distinct roles and professions.

  • Using 'お巡りさん' in a negative or sarcastic tone. Use a neutral or respectful tone.

    While 'お巡りさん' is generally friendly, using it sarcastically or in a negative context can undermine its intended warmth and might be perceived as disrespectful, especially if the situation is serious.

  • Treating 'お巡りさん' as a direct equivalent to 'cop'. Understand the nuance: 'お巡りさん' is friendlier than 'cop'.

    While 'cop' can be informal, it can also sometimes be derogatory. 'お巡りさん' is generally considered friendly and approachable, especially when used by children. It lacks the potential negative connotations that 'cop' can sometimes carry.

  • Forgetting the '-san' suffix. お巡りさん (Omawari-san)

    The '-san' suffix is crucial for politeness and familiarity. Simply saying 'おまわり' (omawari) is much more informal and can sound like slang. Always include '-san' when using this term in friendly conversation.

Tips

Even Syllables

Japanese pronunciation is generally flatter than English, with less stress on individual syllables. Practice saying 'o-ma-wa-ri-san' with a steady rhythm, giving each syllable equal weight.

Visual Association

Picture a friendly police officer in a Japanese setting, perhaps helping a lost child. Associate this image with the word 'お巡りさん' to make it more memorable.

Particle Use

The particle 'に' is often used with 'お巡りさん' when asking for something or receiving help (e.g., お巡りさんに聞く - ask the officer). The particle 'が' is used when they are the subject performing an action (e.g., お巡りさんがいる - there is an officer).

Community Role

The term reflects the perception of police officers as approachable members of the community, especially for children. This contrasts with more formal or potentially intimidating terms used in other cultures.

Synonym Nuance

'お巡りさん' is softer than 'おまわり' (slang) and more familiar than '警察官' (formal). It occupies a comfortable middle ground for friendly, informal references.

Practice in Sentences

Try creating your own sentences using 'お巡りさん' in various everyday scenarios. This active recall will solidify your understanding and usage.

Hear it in Action

Watch Japanese dramas, anime, or children's programs. You'll frequently hear 'お巡りさん' used in contexts that clearly illustrate its meaning and appropriate usage.

Appropriate Contexts

Use 'お巡りさん' in personal stories, informal emails, or when writing for a younger audience. Avoid it in formal essays, business correspondence, or official reports.

Friendly Encounters

If you need to ask for help from a police officer in a casual setting, using 'お巡りさん' can make the interaction feel more relaxed and approachable, especially if the officer seems friendly.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ohm' (like the electrical unit) and 'worry' - the police officer is there to help you not 'worry'. The '-san' is a common polite suffix. So, 'Ohm-worry-san' helps you not worry. Or, imagine a friendly officer saying 'Oh, my!' when they see something interesting, and they are 'san' (a person).

Visual Association

Picture a friendly, smiling police officer in uniform, perhaps with a friendly dog, waving to children. Associate the visual of a reassuring presence with the word 'お巡りさん'. Imagine them saying 'Oh, my!' in a kind way.

Word Web

Police Officer Law Enforcement Community Safety Help Informal Friendly Children

Challenge

Try to use 'お巡りさん' in at least three sentences describing everyday situations where you might encounter a police officer, focusing on its friendly and informal nature.

Word Origin

The term 'お巡りさん' is a colloquial and familiar way of referring to a police officer. It is derived from the older term 'お巡り' (o-mawari), which itself comes from '巡査' (junsá), meaning patrolman or policeman. The honorific suffix '-san' (さん) is added to make it more polite and approachable, especially when speaking to or about them in a friendly context.

Original meaning: Patrolman or policeman.

Japonic

Cultural Context

While 'お巡りさん' is generally considered friendly and informal, it is important to note that it is not appropriate for all situations. In highly formal or official contexts, such as reporting a serious crime or in legal documents, the more formal term '警察官' (keisatsukan) should be used. Using 'お巡りさん' in a confrontational or disrespectful manner could be perceived negatively.

In English-speaking countries, terms like 'officer,' 'cop,' or 'the police' are used. 'Cop' can be informal and sometimes derogatory, while 'officer' is neutral and respectful. 'お巡りさん' is closer to a friendly 'officer' or a very mild, non-derogatory 'cop' in its informal usage.

Anime and Manga: Many anime and manga series feature 'お巡りさん' characters who are depicted as helpful, sometimes bumbling, but ultimately good-hearted figures. They often assist the protagonists in various situations. Children's Books: 'お巡りさん' are common characters in Japanese children's books aimed at teaching about safety and community roles. Local Festivals: During local festivals and events, police officers often participate in a friendly capacity, interacting with the public, which reinforces the approachable image associated with 'お巡りさん'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Children talking about seeing a police officer.

  • お巡りさん、こんにちは!
  • お巡りさんがパトロールしているよ。
  • お巡りさんの自転車、かっこいいね!

Asking for directions in a casual setting.

  • お巡りさん、すみません、駅はどこですか?
  • お巡りさんに道を尋ねました。
  • お巡りさんが親切に教えてくれた。

Describing a police presence in the neighborhood.

  • この辺にはいつもお巡りさんがいる。
  • お巡りさんが地域を守ってくれている。
  • お巡りさんのサイレンが聞こえた。

Recounting a minor incident where a police officer was involved.

  • 迷子になった時、お巡りさんに助けてもらった。
  • 落とし物を拾ってくれたのはお巡りさんだった。
  • お巡りさんに話を聞いてもらった。

Children's stories or media depicting police officers.

  • お巡りさんはみんなの味方だ。
  • お巡りさんのように勇敢になりたい。
  • お巡りさんが悪者を捕まえた。

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever seen an 'お巡りさん' on the street? What were they doing?"

"What do you think is the main difference between 'お巡りさん' and '警察官'?"

"If you were lost in Japan, who would you ask for help first, an 'お巡りさん' or someone else?"

"Do you think children in your country have a similar friendly term for police officers?"

"What kind of situations would you use 'お巡りさん' in, and when would you use a more formal term?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you saw a police officer in Japan or in your home country. What was your impression of them? Would you use 'お巡りさん' to describe them?

Imagine you are a child in Japan and you see an 'お巡りさん'. Write a short story about what happens next.

Compare and contrast the terms 'お巡りさん' and '警察官'. When is each term appropriate to use, and why?

Think about the role of police in society. How does the term 'お巡りさん' reflect the public's perception of police in Japan?

Write a dialogue between a tourist and an 'お巡りさん' where the tourist needs directions or help.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'お巡りさん' is considered polite in informal and friendly contexts. The '-san' suffix adds politeness. However, it is not formal enough for official situations. In those cases, '警察官' (keisatsukan) is the appropriate term. Think of it like calling someone 'Officer' in a friendly way versus addressing them formally as 'Police Officer [Last Name]' in an official capacity.

It is most commonly used by children when referring to police officers they see on the street or in their community. Adults also use it in casual conversations, especially when recounting everyday encounters or when speaking in a relaxed, friendly manner about police presence.

Yes, in casual situations, you can use 'お巡りさん' when directly addressing an officer, especially if you are asking for directions or help in a non-urgent situation. A common way to start is 'お巡りさん、すみません...' (Officer, excuse me...). However, if the situation is serious or formal, it's safer to use '警察官の方' (keisatsukan no kata - referring to the police officer) or simply 'すみません' to get their attention.

'お巡りさん' is an informal, colloquial, and often affectionate term for a police officer. It implies approachability and familiarity. '警察官' is the standard, neutral, and formal term for a police officer, used in official documents, news reports, and professional contexts.

Generally, 'お巡りさん' is not considered rude, especially when used by children or in friendly conversation. However, using it in a confrontational or sarcastic tone, or in a very formal situation where '警察官' is expected, could be perceived as inappropriate or disrespectful. It's best used when aiming for a friendly and approachable tone.

Yes, 'おまわり' (omawari) is a more slang-like and shortened version of 'お巡りさん'. It's even more informal and can sometimes sound a bit rough. 'ポリス' (porisu), a loanword from English 'police', is also used informally, but more often when referring to foreign police or in specific media contexts.

The term is derived from '巡り' (mawari), which relates to patrolling or making rounds. The 'お' (o-) is an honorific prefix, and '-さん' (-san) is a polite suffix. So, it literally implies a polite 'patrol person' or 'round person'.

A child would typically use 'お巡りさん' when seeing a police officer on the street, at a park, or if they need help like finding their parents, asking for directions, or reporting something minor. It's the term they learn to associate with a friendly helper in uniform.

Generally, yes, it refers to any police officer who is on duty and visible, often in uniform. It's not typically used for plainclothes officers unless the context makes it clear. It refers to the role of being a police officer in the community.

Try creating sentences about everyday scenarios: 'I asked the お巡りさん for directions.' 'The child waved at the お巡りさん.' 'I saw an お巡りさん patrolling.' Also, watch Japanese dramas or anime and note when and how the term is used by characters.

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