記者

きしゃ

reporter

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"記者" (きしゃ) means "reporter" or "journalist" in Japanese. It refers to a person who gathers, writes, or reports news for newspapers, television, radio, or online media.

Common Contexts

This word is often used in news-related settings such as press conferences (記者会見), interviews, and news reporting. It can describe professionals who specialize in various fields like sports, politics, or entertainment.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 記者会見 (きしゃかいけん): press conference, where reporters ask questions.
  • スポーツ記者 (スポーツきしゃ): sports reporter, a common specialization.
  • 記者が取材する (きしゃがしゅざいする): reporters covering or gathering news.

Register and Nuance

"記者" is a neutral, formal term used in both spoken and written Japanese. It is appropriate in professional and media contexts.

Common Learner Mistake

Learners sometimes confuse "記者" with "新聞" (newspaper) or "報道" (news reporting). Remember, "記者" specifically refers to the person reporting the news, not the news itself or the medium.

Example Sentences

きしゃはじけんのげんばでインタビューをおこなった。

The reporter conducted an interview at the scene of the incident.

かれはゆうめいなスポーツきしゃとしてしられている。

He is known as a famous sports reporter.

きしゃかいけんであたらしいせいさくについてしつもんがとびかった。

At the press conference, questions about the new policy flew around.