The Japanese words Sensei or Shisho which have been translated as "teacher" or "master,” are very commonly used in Japan. The concepts of honoring, respect and dignity which these words express are a fundamental part of Japanese cultural behavior. Sensei is often used when referring to school teachers, doctors or accomplished persons in virtually any field. Shisho is more formal and is used in the realms of the arts or religion. The shi of shisho is the same as in the term shitei funi, or the oneness of master and disciple. There is no equivalent to these words in English because there is no comparable concept of these kinds of interpersonal relationships in the fabric of Western society.

See Also: Sempai, Sensei, O-Sensei, Shihan, Shinan, Roshi