Translation guide
In Japanese schools, the teacher responsible for a specific class or homeroom, handling administrative and pastoral duties. The term varies by school level and context.
The teacher in charge of a specific class, handling attendance, guidance, and communication with parents.
The most common and general term for a teacher in charge of a class. Used across all school levels.
田中先生は私の担任です。
Mr. Tanaka is my form teacher.
担任の先生に相談してください。
Please consult your form teacher.
A more explicit phrase meaning 'the teacher in charge'. Often used when clarifying or being polite.
担任の先生は誰ですか。
Who is your form teacher?
Literally 'class homeroom teacher'. Used in contexts where multiple teachers share responsibilities.
クラス担任が毎朝出席を取ります。
The form teacher takes attendance every morning.
In Japanese elementary and middle schools, the teacher who stays with the same class for most subjects.
Formal term used in educational contexts, emphasizing the class unit. More common in written or official documents.
学級担任が児童の指導にあたる。
The form teacher is responsible for guiding the students.
In high school, the teacher who manages a homeroom class but may not teach all subjects.
Specifically refers to the homeroom teacher in a high school setting. 'HR担任' is a common abbreviation.
HR担任が進路指導をします。
The homeroom teacher provides career guidance.
When referring to a specific form teacher, it's common to use their name followed by '先生' (sensei). For example, '田中先生' (Tanaka-sensei). This is polite and natural.
担任 (tannin) specifically means the teacher in charge of a class (homeroom/form teacher). 担当 (tantou) means 'in charge of' a subject or task, e.g., 数学担当 (suugaku tantou) = math teacher. Do not confuse them.