恩師

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 恩師 is read as おんし and is a noun for a former teacher or mentor remembered with gratitude for guidance or support.
• Basic usage: Visiting such a teacher appears in 恩師を訪ねる, while advice that provides support appears in 恩師の助言.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Past relationship and gratitude
  • It conveys more than the fact that someone once taught the speaker; it also suggests appreciation for that person's guidance.
• Difference from 先生
  • 先生 broadly addresses or denotes a current teacher or professional, while 恩師 identifies a teacher or mentor to whom one feels indebted.