Translation guide
The English word 'lobby' can refer to a physical space (like a hotel lobby) or to the act of trying to influence politicians. This guide covers both meanings with natural Japanese equivalents.
Referring to an entrance hall, waiting area, or foyer in a building.
The act of trying to influence politicians or public officials on an issue.
廊下 means 'corridor' or 'hallway,' not 'lobby.' A lobby is an open gathering space, while a corridor is a passageway.
ロビーで待ってください。
Please wait in the lobby.
廊下で待たないでください。
Please don't wait in the hallway.
Let's meet in the hotel lobby.
映画館のロビーにポスターが貼ってある。
There are posters up in the movie theater lobby.
A more formal term for an entrance hall, often used in upscale hotels or public buildings. Slightly more specific than ロビー.
式典はホテルのエントランスホールで行われます。
The ceremony will be held in the hotel's entrance hall.
Specifically refers to a lounge area within a lobby, often with seating and sometimes a bar. Used in hotels.
ロビーラウンジでお茶を飲みながら待ちます。
I'll wait while having tea in the lobby lounge.
The standard term for 'lobbying' as a political activity. Combines the loanword 'lobby' with 活動 (activity).
その団体は環境保護のためにロビー活動を行っている。
The organization is lobbying for environmental protection.
A more traditional Japanese term for petitioning or making a direct appeal to authorities. Often used in political or bureaucratic contexts.
地元企業が議員に陳情に行った。
Local businesses went to lobby the lawmakers.
A general term for 'lobbying' or 'exerting influence,' not limited to politics. Can be used in business or social contexts.
政府に政策変更を働きかけている。
They are lobbying the government for a policy change.
A loanword for 'lobbyist,' the person who does lobbying. Less common than ロビー活動.
彼は大手企業のロビイストとして働いている。
He works as a lobbyist for a major corporation.