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師匠

shishō
master craftsman

彼は名高い彫刻師の師匠に弟子入りした。

He became an apprentice to a renowned master sculptor.


formal

A master craftsman or artisan who teaches and guides apprentices in a traditional craft or art.

師匠は弟子に技を丁寧に教えてくれた。

The master craftsman taught his apprentice the craft with great care.

伝統的な日本画を師匠から学ぶ。

I learn traditional Japanese painting from my master.

Often used for traditional arts like tea ceremony, calligraphy, or martial arts. Can also imply a mentor in a broader sense.

Collocations

師匠に就くto become an apprentice to a master師匠の教えthe teachings of a master

Synonyms

師父先生先輩

Antonyms

弟子

Related Phrases

師弟関係phrase
master-apprentice relationship

Pro Tip

Distinguishing 師匠 from 先生

師匠 is specifically for masters of traditional crafts or arts, while 先生 is a general term for teachers or mentors in any field.

Gold Rule

Respectful Usage

Always use 師匠 with respect, as it implies a deep reverence for the master's skill and guidance.

Word Origin

師 (shi) means 'teacher' or 'master,' and 匠 (shō) means 'artisan' or 'craftsman.' The compound emphasizes both the instructional and skilled aspects of the role.

Usage Notes

師匠 is respectful and typically used for someone who has achieved mastery in a traditional craft or art. It is less common in modern, non-traditional professions.

Word Breakdown

師
teacher or master
root
+
匠
artisan or craftsman
root
和英辞典

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