Translation and Meaning of: 就業 - shuugyou

If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in work culture in Japan, you may have come across the word 就業[しゅうぎょう]. It appears in formal contexts, corporate documents, and even in discussions about professional routines. But what exactly does this expression mean? In this article, we will explore its meaning, everyday use, and even some tips for memorizing it efficiently. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and precise explanations for those who want to master the Japanese language.

Meaning and usage of 就業[しゅうぎょう]

The word 就業[しゅうぎょう] is composed of two kanji: 就 (shū), which carries the idea of "to assume" or "to engage," and 業 (gyō), which refers to "work" or "business." Together, they form a term that means "employment," "exercise of a profession," or, in more specific contexts, the act of starting to work at a certain time. Unlike 仕事[しごと] (shigoto), which refers to the work itself, 就業 is more related to the formal aspect of the occupation.

In Japan, it is common to see this word in company announcements, such as "就業時間" (shūgyō jikan), which indicates the established working hours. It also appears in expressions like "就業規則" (shūgyō kisoku), the internal rules of a company. Its use is almost exclusively professional, avoided in informal conversations among friends.

Cultural context and importance in Japan

In Japan, where discipline and punctuality are fundamental values, 就業 reflects the seriousness with which work is regarded. Companies often highlight their 就業 hours on signs or manuals, emphasizing the importance of strict adherence to work hours. This term not only defines the start and end of work activities but also symbolizes the collective commitment to productivity.

It is worth noting that, although 就業 is widely used, it does not appear as much in everyday life outside the corporate environment. If you are learning Japanese for travel or casual conversations, you might prioritize other words. But if the focus is on the Japanese job market, understanding 就業 is essential.

Tips for memorizing and avoiding confusion

An effective way to solidify 就業 is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of a time clock or an ID badge — elements that refer to the start of the workday. Another strategy is to create flashcards with real-life examples, such as "就業時間は9時です" (The work hours start at 9 AM). Repeating these phrases out loud helps to internalize the term.

Be careful not to confuse 就業 with 職業[しょくぎょう] (shokugyō), which means "occupation" or "profession." While the first refers to the act of working, the second describes the career itself. Paying attention to these details prevents misunderstandings in communication.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

勤務 (Kinmu) - Service, especially in a formal employment or work context.
就労 (Shūrō) - Work, in a broader sense, including formal and informal employment.
仕事 (Shigoto) - Work or task, which can refer to any type of professional activity or occupation.