Japanese Business Etiquette: Vocabulary for Professional Conduct in Japan

Japanese business etiquette is essential for building successful and respectful professional relationships in Japan. Here are some essential words and phrases related to Japanese business etiquette and professional conduct:

1. 仕事 (Shigoto) – Work, job

   Referring to one’s job or profession.

2. ビジネス (Bijinesu) – Business

   The world of commerce and professional activities.

3. 礼儀正しい (Reigi tadashii) – Polite, well-mannered

   Describing someone who behaves with courtesy and respect.

4. 挨拶 (Aisatsu) – Greeting

   The act of saying hello or introducing oneself.

5. 名刺交換 (Meishi kōkan) – Business card exchange

   The formal exchange of business cards during introductions.

6. お辞儀 (Ojigi) – Bow

   A common gesture of respect and greeting in Japan.

7. 上司 (Jōshi) – Boss, supervisor

   The person in a higher position or authority at work.

8. 部下 (Buka) – Subordinate, employee

   The person in a lower position or rank at work.

9. 礼儀作法 (Reigi sahō) – Business manners

   The set of rules and behaviors for polite and respectful conduct in a professional setting.

10. 会議 (Kaigi) – Meeting, conference

     A formal gathering to discuss business matters.

11. 仕事の服装 (Shigoto no fukusō) – Business attire

     The formal dress code for professional settings.

12. 出張 (Shucchō) – Business trip

     A trip taken for business purposes.

13. 商談 (Shōdan) – Business negotiation

     The process of discussing and reaching agreements in business deals.

14. 連絡先 (Renrakusaki) – Contact information

     Address, phone number, and email used for communication.

15. 打ち合わせ (Uchiawase) – Business appointment, meeting

     A scheduled meeting for discussions and planning.

16. 定時 (Teiji) – Regular working hours

     The standard working hours for an office or company.

17. 労働時間 (Rōdō jikan) – Working hours

     The total hours an employee spends on work.

18. 休日 (Kyūjitsu) – Holiday, day off

     A day when employees are not required to work.

19. 遅刻 (Chikoku) – Tardiness, being late

     The act of arriving late for work or a meeting.

20. 正確 (Seikaku) – Accuracy, precision

     The quality of being correct and precise in one’s work.

21. 粘り強さ (Nebarizuyosa) – Persistence, perseverance

     The ability to persist and endure challenges in business.

22. 守秘義務 (Shuhi gimu) – Confidentiality

     The responsibility to keep sensitive information private.

23. 順番 (Junban) – Order, turn

     The sequence in which tasks or activities are performed.

24. コミュニケーション (Komyunikēshon) – Communication

     The exchange of information and ideas between individuals.

25. 協力 (Kyōryoku) – Cooperation

     The act of working together toward a common goal.

26. 商慣習 (Shō kanjū) – Business customs

     The established practices and traditions in the business world.

27. お願いします (Onegaishimasu) – Please, I request you

     A polite expression used when making a request.

28. お疲れ様でした (Otsukaresama deshita) – Thank you for your hard work

     A phrase used to express appreciation to colleagues after a day of work.

29. 謝罪 (Shazai) – Apology

     The act of expressing regret or saying sorry.

30. 優先順位 (Yūsen jun’i) – Priority

     The order of importance or precedence in completing tasks.

Understanding and practicing these words and concepts will help you navigate Japanese business culture with respect and professionalism, contributing to successful collaborations and long-lasting partnerships. Adapting to Japanese business etiquette demonstrates your appreciation for local customs and helps foster strong relationships in a professional context.

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