Translation and Meaning of: 採算 - saisan

The Japanese word 採算 (さいさん, saisan) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important nuances in the economic and business context. If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in the language, understanding its meaning and usage can be essential for more technical conversations or even for business. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is written, and in what situations it is most commonly found.

In addition to unraveling its meaning, let's analyze how 採算 is perceived in Japan, including its frequency in daily life and practical examples of application. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese assess the viability of a project or business, this word is a key piece for understanding this reasoning.

The meaning and use of 採算 (さいさん)

採算 (saisan) is a term frequently used in financial and administrative contexts, meaning "economic viability" or "profitability." It is employed to assess whether a project, business, or investment is worthwhile from a financial perspective. For example, a company may analyze whether opening a new branch has "採算が取れる" (saisan ga toreru), meaning it will be profitable.

In Japan, where efficiency and financial planning are highly valued, this word frequently appears in corporate reports, business meetings, and even in everyday discussions about the economy. Its use reflects a pragmatic mindset, common in environments where the balance between cost and benefit is crucial.

The writing and composition of 採算

The kanji 採 (sai) means "to gather" or "to select," while 算 (san) is associated with "calculation" or "accounting." Together, they convey the idea of "calculating feasibility," which makes complete sense considering the word's meaning. This combination of ideograms is common in terms related to finance and management, such as 計算 (keisan, "calculation") and 予算 (yosan, "budget").

It's worth noting that 採算 is not an isolated word – it appears in expressions such as 採算性 (saisansei, "profitability") and 採算ライン (saisan rain, "break-even line"). If you are learning Japanese for business, memorizing these variations can be extremely helpful.

How 採算 is perceived in Japan

In the Japanese corporate world, 採算 is a fundamental concept. Companies and entrepreneurs constantly assess whether their actions are financially sustainable, and this word is at the center of these discussions. Unlike more informal terms, it carries a serious and objective tone, being more common in reports and analyses than in casual conversations.

Interestingly, the concern for economic viability reflects Japanese cultural values, such as the pursuit of efficiency and the aversion to waste. This explains why 採算 is so relevant in a country where long-term planning and financial stability are priorities. If you want to better understand how the Japanese think about business, this word is an excellent starting point.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 収益性 (Shūekisei) - Revenue-generating capacity
• 経済性 (Keizaisei) - Economic efficiency, the relationship between cost and benefit
• 利益性 (Rieki-sei) - Profit-generating capacity

採算

Romaji: saisan
Kana: さいさん
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Profit

Meaning in English: profit

Definition: The proper and uniform examination of the profits and losses resulting from a specific business or activity.

Example Sentences - (採算) saisan

See below some example sentences:

この事業の採算はどうですか？

Kono jigyou no saisaku wa dou desu ka?

How is this business profitable?

• この事業 - "this business"
• の - Possession particle
• 採算 - "financial viability"
• は - Topic particle
• どう - "how"
• ですか - "Is it?" (polite form of asking)