Meaning and Role
The word 課長 (かちょう) refers to a section manager or department head within a company. This position is typically responsible for overseeing a specific section or team, managing daily operations, and reporting to higher management.
Usage in Business Context
課長 is commonly used in workplace conversations, especially when discussing roles, responsibilities, or reporting lines. It is a formal title and often appears in meetings, emails, and official communications.
Common Collocations
- 課長に報告する: to report to the section manager
- 課長会議: a meeting of section managers
- 課長代理: acting section manager
These collocations help learners understand how 課長 fits into typical business phrases.
Register and Politeness
Using 課長 shows respect for the position. When addressing or referring to a 課長, it is polite to use their title rather than just their name.
Learner Tips
A common mistake is confusing 課長 with 部長 (ぶちょう), which means department manager and is a higher position. Remember 課長 is a mid-level manager, usually in charge of a section within a department.