Meaning and Usage
The word "大使" (たいし) specifically refers to an ambassador, a high-ranking diplomat who represents their country in a foreign nation. It is a formal term used in political and diplomatic contexts.
Common Contexts
You will often see "大使" used when talking about embassies (大使館), diplomatic appointments, or international relations. For example, "日本の大使" means "Japan's ambassador."
Collocations and Patterns
- 大使館 (たいしかん): embassy, the office where the ambassador works.
- 大使に任命される: to be appointed as an ambassador.
- 大使が着任する: the ambassador takes office.
Register and Politeness
"大使" is a formal noun and is used in official or news contexts. It is not used casually.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "大使" with "使者" (ししゃ), which means "messenger" or "emissary" but is less formal and less specific. Remember that "大使" always refers to an ambassador-level diplomat.