Meaning and Role
"部長" (ぶちょう) refers to the manager or head of a department within a company or organization. It is a common job title used in Japanese workplaces to indicate someone who oversees a specific division or section.
Usage in Conversation
When you mention "部長," you are usually talking about a person with authority who manages a team or project within their department. It is often used in formal or business contexts.
Common Collocations
- 部長に報告する (report to the department manager): used when informing or updating the 部長 about work matters.
- 営業部の部長 (sales department manager): specifying the department the 部長 is in charge of.
- 部長会議 (managers' meeting): a meeting involving department heads.
Register and Politeness
"部長" is a formal job title and is used respectfully. When speaking directly to a 部長, polite language is expected.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse "部長" with "課長" (section chief), which is a lower managerial position. Also, "部長" is not used for government ministers; in that context, "大臣" is used instead.