Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a mail carrier is expressed with specific job titles that differ by employer and context. The most common and neutral term is 郵便配達員, while casual or everyday references often use 郵便屋さん. For formal or official contexts, 郵便集配人 or 郵便外務職員 may be used. Note that direct translations like 'メールキャリア' are not used.
Referring to a mail carrier in a general, neutral way, suitable for most everyday situations.
Standard, neutral term for a mail carrier. Used in news, official descriptions, and everyday conversation.
郵便配達員が毎朝手紙を届けてくれる。
The mail carrier delivers letters every morning.
Casual, friendly term often used by children or in informal contexts. Adds さん for politeness.
郵便屋さんが来たよ。
The mail carrier is here!
Descriptive phrase meaning 'the person who delivers mail'. Slightly more roundabout but natural.
郵便配達の人が荷物を持ってきた。
The mail carrier brought a package.
Used in official documents, job titles, or when referring to the position formally.
Formal term for a mail carrier who both collects and delivers mail. Often used in official contexts.
郵便集配人は毎日多くの郵便物を扱います。
Mail carriers handle a large volume of mail every day.
Official Japan Post term for a mail carrier. Very formal and bureaucratic.
郵便外務職員として採用されました。
I was hired as a mail carrier.
When referring to a mail carrier in specific roles or historical contexts.
Historical term for a courier or express messenger in pre-modern Japan. Not used for modern mail carriers.
飛脚が手紙を運んだ。
The courier carried the letter.
Do not use メールキャリア or 郵便キャリア; these are not natural Japanese. Stick to the terms listed above.