探偵 — meaning in English: Detective

tantei · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for detective

工場

kōjō

ベッドルーム

beddo rūmu

特派員

tokuhain

探偵

tantei

戸口

toguchi

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Japanese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers often use the word 探偵 (tantei) in the context of crime novels, movies, and television shows. It's common to hear it during discussions of detective work or when referring to private investigators in both casual conversations and professional settings.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 警察官 (keisatsukan), which means 'police officer.' While 警察官 refers specifically to law enforcement officials, 探偵 (tantei) can refer to private detectives or investigators who often operate independently, adding a layer of intrigue and autonomy.

Culture

The word 探偵 (tantei) is derived from the kanji 探, meaning 'to search' or 'to investigate,' and 偵, which means 'to watch' or 'to observe.' In Japanese culture, detectives are not only popular in literature but also deeply embedded in the psyche, often being romanticized in various media, such as anime and film, showcasing their role in solving mysteries and addressing social issues.

FAQ

Q.What does 探偵 (tantei) mean in English?

The word 探偵 (tantei) translates to 'detective' in English, referring to someone who investigates crimes or mysteries.

Q.How do you use 探偵 in a sentence?

You can use 探偵 in a sentence like this: '彼は探偵として働いています,' which means 'He works as a detective.'

Q.Is 探偵 used in formal or informal situations?

探偵 (tantei) is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for various discussions about detective work.

Learn japanese with Maspeak →

Japanese 2000