Translation and Meaning of: 出費 - shupi

The Japanese word 出費 [しゅっぴ] is a common term in everyday life in Japan, especially when the topic involves finances and expenses. If you are learning Japanese or have an interest in the language, understanding the meaning, origin, and usage of this expression can be quite helpful. In this article, we will explore everything about 出費, from its composition in kanji to how it is culturally perceived by the Japanese.

In addition to uncovering the literal meaning of 出費, we will also discuss practical tips for memorizing this word and situations where it frequently appears. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese handle expenses in their daily lives or how this expression differs from similar terms, keep reading to find out!

Meaning and composition of 出費

The word 出費 is made up of two kanji: 出 (shutsu), which means "to exit" or "to spend," and 費 (hi), which refers to "expenses" or "costs." Together, they form the term that can be translated as "expenditures," "outlays," or "expenses." It is a neutral word used to refer to any type of financial outflow, whether planned or unexpected.

Unlike more specific terms like 請求書 (invoice) or 予算 (budget), 出費 has a broader meaning. It can be applied to both small everyday purchases and large investments. For example, if someone says "今月は出費が多い" (kongo wa shuppi ga ooi), it means "this month expenses are high."

Everyday use and cultural context

In Japan, where financial planning is taken seriously, 出費 is a word frequently used in everyday conversations. Many Japanese people maintain a 家計簿 (kakeibo), a household ledger, to record their expenses and avoid unnecessary spending. The culture of avoiding 無駄遣い (mudazukai, waste) makes the term appear often in discussions about the economy.

It is worth noting that 出費 does not carry a negative connotation by itself, but its use often reflects concern about financial balance. In animes and dramas, for example, it is common for characters to complain about 出費がかさむ (shuppi ga kasamu), which means "the expenses are piling up." This type of expression helps to understand how the word is used in real situations.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to remember 出費 is to associate its kanjis with mental images. The character 出, which represents "to exit," can be visualized as money leaving a wallet, while 費 refers to something that consumes resources. This association technique is useful for students who want to retain vocabulary more permanently.

Interestingly, although 出費 (shuppi) is a common word, it does not appear as much in formal business contexts, where terms like 経費 (keihi, operational expenses) are more commonly used. This distinction is important for those who want to use Japanese in professional environments, as it demonstrates a deeper knowledge of the language.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

支出 (shutsu) - General expenses
費用 (hiyou) - Specific costs or expenses
経費 (keihi) - Business-related expenses
負担 (futan) - Financial responsibility or burden
負担金 (futankin) - Amount to be borne as responsibility
費用負担 (hiyou futan) - Cost to be borne by someone
費用負担金 (hiyou futankin) - Specific amount for costs to be incurred
費用支出 (hiyou shutsu) - Expenses related to specific costs
費用負担額 (hiyou futan-gaku) - Total amount to be incurred in costs
費用負担金額 (hiyou futan-kin-gaku) - Specific value of the amount to be supported
費用支払い (hiyou shiharai) - Payment of costs or expenses
費用支払い額 (hiyou shiharai-gaku) - Cost payment amount
費用支払い金 (hiyou shiharai-kin) - Amount of money for the payment of expenses
費用支払い金額 (hiyou shiharai-kin-gaku) - Total payment amount in cash for expenses
費用負担支払い (hiyou futan shiharai) - Payment of the costs that must be borne
費用負担支払い額 (hiyou futan shiharai-gaku) - Amount to be paid for incurred costs
費用負担支払い金 (hiyou futan shiharai-kin) - Amount of money for payment of incurred costs
費用負担支払い金額 (hiyou futan shiharai-kin-gaku) - Total amount of cash payment for incurred costs