Translation and Meaning of: 部下 - buka

The Japanese word 「部下」 (buka) is a common expression in the corporate and social world, used to describe those who are under the supervision or direction of someone within a hierarchical structure. This word is composed of two kanji, 「部」 (bu) and 「下」 (ka), each bringing its own meaning to the term. The kanji 「部」 refers to "department" or "section," indicating an area or subdivision of a larger whole. On the other hand, 「下」 means "under" or "below," suggesting a lower position in hierarchical terms.

Etymologically, the fusion of these kanji reinforces the concept of "subordinate" or "collaborator," someone who operates within a department but in a position below a leader or supervisor. The union of 「部」 and 「下」 highlights the dynamics of power and responsibility within an organized structure. The term emphasizes how the Japanese language often encapsulates complex concepts in an effective arrangement of characters, reflecting both tradition and modernity in work practices and social interactions.

In Japanese work culture, the relationship between a 「buka」 and their superior is of utmost importance. This relationship is often characterized by mutual respect, where the buka receives guidance and provides support in their daily functions. The concept of 「buka」 goes beyond the simple "subordinate"; it involves a continuous building of trust and responsibility. In the corporate environment, this relationship can directly affect team productivity and morale, making it crucial for the harmonious functioning of a company.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 部員 (Buin) - Member of a group or team.
• 部屋 (Heya) - Room or living room.
• 部署 (Busho) - Division or department within an organization.
• 部分 (Bubun) - Part or fraction of a whole.
• 部隊 (Butai) - Military unit or troop.
• 部品 (Buhin) - Component or part of an object.
• 部門 (bumon) - Sector or area of expertise in an organization.
• 部族 (Buzoku) - Tribe or ethnic group.
• 部下者 (Buka-sha) - Subordinate or assistant.

部下

Romaji: buka
Kana: ぶか
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: subordinate person

Meaning in English: subordinate person

Definition: A position or person who follows and executes the instructions of a superior or leader.

Example Sentences - (部下) buka

See below some example sentences:

私の部下はとても優秀です。

Watashi no buka wa totemo yuushuu desu

My subordinates are very good.

• 私 (watashi) - personal pronoun that means "I"
• の (no) - particle that indicates possession, equivalent to "de" in English
• 部下 (buka) - "Subordinate" is a noun that means "subordinate".
• は (wa) - particle that marks the topic of the sentence
• とても (totemo) - adverb meaning "very"
• 優秀 (yuushuu) - adjective that means "excellent"
• です (desu) - auxiliary verb that indicates the present tense and formality