1.
person who gives orders; director; person in charge
The person whose job is to direct others — issuing instructions, assigning tasks, and overseeing how work is carried out. Can describe a formal supervisory role, but more often appears in a slightly critical or teasing tone, suggesting someone who bosses others around without doing the hands-on work themselves.
Composed of 指図 (instruction; order given to others) and the suffix 役 (role; part). The 役 suffix names a functional role, as in 案内役 (guide) or 仲介役 (mediator).
Usage
Often carries a negative or sarcastic nuance, especially with adverbs like ばかり or いつも — "always the one giving orders (but never doing the work)." When used neutrally, it simply refers to the person assigning tasks or coordinating a group. In formal work contexts, 指揮者, 責任者, or 監督 are preferred for the same role without the dismissive overtones.
Common collocations
- 指図役ばかり: nothing but giving orders
- 指図役に回る: to take on the role of order-giver
- 指図役に徹する: to devote oneself solely to directing others
- 現場の指図役: the on-site person in charge
Similar words
- 指揮者: conductor; commander — a more formal, positive term for a leader who directs
- 責任者: person in charge; the one responsible — emphasizes accountability, not order-giving
- 監督: supervisor; director — used for film directors, sports coaches, and general supervisors
- 仕切り役: the one who runs the show — similar but more about organizing an event than giving orders