noun
merchant; trader; shrewd businessperson
Refers to someone engaged in commerce, often with a nuance of business acumen or profit-mindedness. Can be neutral or slightly pejorative depending on context.
彼は生まれつきの商売人だ。
He is a born merchant.
あの商売人はいつも抜け
That trader is always sharp and misses no opportunity.
noun
expert; professional; skilled practitioner
Used for someone highly skilled in a trade or profession, not limited to commerce. Often implies seasoned, practical expertise.
彼は料理の商売人だから、包丁さばきが違う。
He is a professional cook, so his knife skills are on another level.
noun
woman in the nightlife business; hostess; geisha; demimondaine
Specifically refers to women working in bars, nightclubs, or traditional entertainment districts. Often used euphemistically or in historical contexts. Cross-referenced with 商売女.
See also: 商売女
彼女は銀座で長年商売人をしている。
She has been working as a hostess in Ginza for many years.