Kannushi (Shinto Priest - colloquial)

Kannushi is a term for a Shinto priest that is widely used in everyday Japanese. While the formal term for shrine clergy is shinshoku (a general category encompassing all priestly ranks), kannushi is the word most ordinary Japanese people use when referring to the person who performs rituals at the shrine.

Historically, 'kannushi' (literally 'kami-master' or 'master of the kami') was a specific title referring to the chief ritualist who had the special ability and authority to serve the kami directly. In some ancient traditions, the kannushi was the person through whom the kami spoke. Over time, the term became generalized to refer to any Shinto priest.

In modern usage, calling a shrine priest 'kannushi-san' is perfectly natural and respectful, much as one might say 'father' for a Catholic priest regardless of his precise rank. The more technical term shinshoku is used in formal and organizational contexts, while guji, negi, and other specific titles are used when referring to particular positions in the shrine hierarchy.