Japanese word

師匠

Pronunciation

Romajishishō

Meaning

  • nounmentor

Example

私の師匠は有名です。watashi no shi shō wa yū mei de su

My mentor is famous.

Illustration for 師匠 (mentor)

More examples

師匠に新しい技術を見せてもらいました。shi shō ni atara shi i gi jutsu o mi se te mo ra i ma shi ta

My mentor showed me a new technique.

Core concept

Describes a respected guide who passes specialized knowledge and skill to a learner over time.

Common phrases

  • 師匠に学ぶshi shō ni mana bu

    learn from a mentor

  • 師匠の教えshi shō no oshi e

    a mentor's teachings

Similar words

先生sensei: A teacher or respected person who gives guidance in a field or setting.
恩師onshi: A teacher who has had a lasting and important influence on a person's learning.
師範shihan: An instructor qualified to teach a traditional art, craft, or martial art.

Definition in Japanese

学問や技芸などを教え導き、師として敬われる人。gaku mon ya gi gei na do o oshi e michibi ki shi to shi te uyama wa re ru hito

Word origin

The Sino-Japanese noun 師匠 (shishō) combines 師 (shi, "teacher") and 匠 (shō, "artisan"), giving the sense of a respected teacher who passes on specialized skills.

Usage tips

  • In Japanese, 師匠 (shishō) often refers to the teacher of a traditional art, craft, or martial art, and it can signal a respectful long-term relationship rather than a one-time lesson.

Other meanings

  • masternoun
  • teachernoun

Word lists with this word