1.
entertainer, comedian, performer
A person who performs to entertain others. In modern Japanese, most commonly refers to comedians (お笑い芸人), but can also refer to other types of performers such as street performers, variety show talents, or traditional entertainers.
あの芸人は面白い。
That comedian is funny.
若手芸人がテレビで活躍している。
Young comedians are active on television.
彼は芸人を目指して大阪から上京した。
He came up to Tokyo from Osaka aspiring to become a comedian.
USAGE:
In modern usage, 芸人 most often means a comedian, especially an お笑い芸人 (comedy entertainer). Japanese comedy culture, centered in Osaka and Tokyo, is a major part of the TV entertainment industry. Many 芸人 work in pairs (コンビ) performing manzai or conte.
The word can also refer more broadly to any performer or entertainer, including 大道芸人 (street performer).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- お笑い芸人: comedian
- 若手芸人: young/up-and-coming comedian
- 大道芸人: street performer
- 売れっ子芸人: popular comedian
- 芸人魂: entertainer's spirit