noun
Edo-period local governor; local magistrate; bailiff
Historical term for an official who governed a domain on behalf of the shogunate or a daimyo during the Edo period. Often translated as 'local governor', 'magistrate', or 'bailiff' depending on context.
江戸時代、代官は幕府の直轄地を管理した。
During the Edo period, the local governor administered the shogunate's direct territories.
The magistrate's office handled tax collection and trials.
noun
deputy official (medieval); acting administrator
Historical term for a deputy or acting official in the Middle Ages, predating the Edo-period usage. Less common than the Edo-period sense.
中世の代官は、荘園領主の代理として現地を管理した。
Medieval deputy officials managed estates on behalf of the manor lords.