主任

• Reading: しゅにん
• Romaji: shunin
• Kanji breakdown: 主 (shu/nushi) — main, chief; 任 (nin/maka) — duty, responsibility, entrust
• Pronunciation: /ɕɯ.niɴ/

Meaning

Person in charge; senior staff member; chief; head of a section.

A noun denoting a mid-level supervisory position in Japanese organisations. Ranks above general staff but below 係長 (kakarichou, section chief). Used in companies, schools, hospitals, and government offices. Often combined with a field, e.g., 主任研究員 (chief researcher).

Examples

1. 来月から主任に昇進することになった。 I've been promoted to senior staff member starting next month.
2. 主任が不在のときは副主任が対応します。 When the person in charge is absent, the deputy will handle things.
3. 田中主任に報告書を提出してください。 Please submit the report to Senior Staff Member Tanaka.

Usage Guide

Context: workplace, organisations, job titles

Tone: professional

Origin & History

Compound of 主 (shu, main/chief) + 任 (nin, duty/responsibility). Literally 'main person of duty,' designating someone entrusted with primary responsibility for a role.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Professional