後輩
こうはい
kouhai
= junior / younger colleague / subordinate
Kouhai means ‘junior’ or ‘younger colleague,’ someone with less seniority in school, work, or organizations. Fundamental to hierarchical Japanese society.
Kouhai refers to someone junior in experience or organizational position. In schools, kouhai are younger students; in companies, they’re newer employees. Counterpart is ‘senpai’ (senior). Kouhai relationships carry obligations—seniors mentor juniors, who show respect and obedience.
Kouhai is used in formal contexts. Relationships are hierarchical—kouhai must show respect through language and behavior.
後 (ato, after) and 輩 (hai, companion). Together: those who come after.
Everyday use
私の後輩は4月に入社しました。
Watashi no kouhai wa shigatsu ni nyuusha shimashita.
My junior colleague joined in April.
Formal / Cultural context
後輩を指導するのは先輩の責任です。
Kouhai wo shidou suru no wa senpai no sekinin desu.
Guiding juniors is a senior’s responsibility.
Casual / Social Media
学校の後輩と友達になった。
Gakkou no kouhai to tomodachi ni natta.
I became friends with a junior from school.
The senpai-kouhai hierarchy is central to Japanese social structure. Mentorship is formalized and carries deep obligations.
This relationship reflects broader Japanese values of hierarchy and respect.
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