Meaning and Role
The word 牧師 (ぼくし) refers specifically to a Christian pastor or minister, a clergyman who leads a congregation, conducts religious ceremonies, and provides spiritual guidance. It is a formal term used mainly in religious contexts.
Common Contexts
You will often hear 牧師 in settings related to church activities such as sermons, weddings, funerals, and community services. It is not used for religious leaders outside Christianity.
Collocations and Patterns
- 牧師として (as a pastor): used to describe someone's role or profession.
- 牧師の説教 (pastor's sermon): common phrase referring to the religious message delivered.
- 教会の牧師 (church pastor): specifying the place of service.
Usage Notes
When using 牧師, it implies respect and formality. It is not interchangeable with generic words for religious leaders in other faiths. Learners sometimes confuse 牧師 with 神父 (しんぷ, Catholic priest) or 僧侶 (そうりょ, Buddhist monk), so be sure to use 牧師 only in Protestant or general Christian contexts.