Sensei (先生) is one of the most central and culturally rich words in Japanese, especially within the dōjō (道場) and traditional arts.
In Japan, sensei is used as a respectful title for:
- Teachers (school, university, or private instructors)
- Masters of traditional arts (budō, shodō, kadō, sadō)
- Doctors (physicians, dentists, etc.)
- Politicians, authors, or experts (as a form of formal address)
It conveys not only expertise, but also moral and personal respect for someone guiding others in a “Way” (dō).
In a martial arts context, sensei refers to a teacher or instructor who has gone before on the path of training. A sensei teaches technique, but also attitude, etiquette, and character. The word implies humility and responsibility — not authority alone. In traditional etiquette, a true sensei is one who continues to learn and guides through example. In the dojo, it signifies a person who has advanced along the martial path and guides others through experience, integrity, and example — not just technical skill.
Calling someone sensei doesn’t only mean “teacher” — it acknowledges a relationship of trust. You, the student (deshi or uchideshi), are learning not only what they do, but how they live. The word carries a sense of gratitude and respect for their example. That’s why students bow and say: 「先生に礼！」 (Sensei ni rei!) — “Bow to the teacher!” It’s not worship — it’s gratitude for transmission of the Way (dō).
Translation
先 (sen) means before, ahead, previous. It indicates one who came earlier, a predecessor or guide. 生 (sei) means life, birth, to live, to grow. Refers to a person of experience or vitality. 先生 (sensei) literally means “one who was born before” or “one who came before.” It carries the sense of “a person who has gone ahead in life or learning and can therefore teach others.”
Related Terms
先生 (Sensei) means teacher or instructor in the dojo and is a general term of respect
師範 (Shihan) means model teacher. This is often a senior instructor or a head teacher and is used for high ranks (5th dan+)
師匠 (Shishō) means master or personal mentor (especially in koryū) and implies lineage transmission
Common Phrases
先生に礼 (Sensei ni rei) – Bow to the instructor
ありがとうございました、先生 (Arigatō gozaimashita, sensei) – Thank you very much, teacher (after class)
先生、お願いします (Sensei, onegai shimasu) – “Please teach me, sensei” (before class)
先生のおかげです (Sensei no okage desu) – “It’s thanks to you, sensei.”
