Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for 'voice actor' is most commonly 声優 (seiyuu), but there are nuances depending on context, such as dubbing versus original animation, and formal versus casual settings.
The most common and general term for a voice actor, especially in anime, video games, and other Japanese media.
The standard term for a voice actor in Japanese. It is widely understood and used in both casual and formal contexts. Often associated with anime and game voice acting.
彼は有名な声優です。
He is a famous voice actor.
声優になるために、専門学校に通っています。
I'm attending a vocational school to become a voice actor.
Abbreviation for 'character voice', commonly used in anime credits and fan communities. It is more technical and often seen in written form.
このアニメのCVは豪華だ。
The voice cast for this anime is stellar.
Specifically refers to voice actors who dub foreign movies, TV shows, or other content into Japanese.
A voice actor specializing in dubbing (吹き替え). This term clarifies that the actor works on foreign content rather than original Japanese productions.
彼女は吹き替え声優としてハリウッド映画で活躍している。
She is active as a dubbing voice actor in Hollywood movies.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'person who does voice dubbing'. It is less common as a job title but can be used in explanations.
声の吹き替えをする人を探しています。
We are looking for someone to do voice dubbing.
Used in official or industry settings, such as credits, contracts, or professional titles.
Even in formal contexts, 声優 is the standard term. It is used in official documents and credits.
声優のギャラは作品によって異なります。
Voice actors' fees vary depending on the production.
Literally 'voice appearance', this phrase is often seen in credits to indicate voice acting roles. It is not a job title but a credit description.
声の出演：山田太郎
Voice cast: Taro Yamada
Informal ways to refer to voice actors, often used by fans or in casual conversation.
Slang meaning 'the person inside' (the character). Used by fans to refer to the voice actor behind an animated character. It can be playful or affectionate.
このキャラの中の人は誰？
Who's the voice actor for this character?
Adding さん makes it polite and friendly. Commonly used by fans when referring to voice actors they admire.
あの声優さんが大好きです。
I love that voice actor.
The literal translation 声の俳優 (こえのはいゆう) is not commonly used and may sound unnatural. Stick with 声優 (せいゆう) in almost all cases.
声優 is the general term for voice actors, including those who work on original Japanese media. 吹き替え声優 specifically refers to those who dub foreign content. If you need to clarify, use 吹き替え声優, but in most contexts, 声優 is sufficient.