Japanese Business Glossary

委任者 (ininsha) is a Japanese term that translates to "principal" or "mandator" in English. It refers to a person who grants authority to another person, known as the agent or representative (受任者, juninsha), to act on their behalf.

The 委任者 delegates specific tasks, responsibilities, or decision-making powers to the agent through a legal arrangement known as a 委任契約 (inin keiyaku), or "mandate contract." This contract outlines the scope of the agent's authority and the duties they are expected to perform.

委任者 is commonly used in legal, business, and financial contexts where one party needs another to act on their behalf in matters such as transactions, negotiations, or management activities.

法人保険 (houjin hoken) is a Japanese term that translates to "corporate insurance" or "business insurance" in English. It refers to insurance policies that businesses purchase to protect against various risks and liabilities associated with their operations. Types of 法人保険 include property insurance, which covers damage to business property due to events like fire, theft, or natural disasters. Liability insurance protects against legal claims arising from accidents, injuries, or negligence. Business interruption insurance compensates for lost income and ongoing expenses if business operations are disrupted by an insured event. Employee benefits insurance includes health, life, and disability insurance for employees. These insurance policies help businesses manage risk, protect their assets, and ensure continuity in the face of unforeseen events.

財団法人 (zaidan houjin) is a Japanese term that translates to "foundation" or "incorporated foundation" in English. It refers to a legal entity established for the purpose of managing and using assets donated by individuals, corporations, or other organizations to achieve specific charitable, educational, cultural, or public interest goals.

A 財団法人 is typically governed by a board of directors or trustees and operates according to a set of bylaws or a charter. The assets of the foundation are used to fund various programs, grants, scholarships, or projects that align with its mission and objectives. This type of organization is often involved in activities such as supporting research, providing social services, promoting the arts, or contributing to community development.

財団法人 is regulated under Japanese law, which sets out the requirements for its establishment, operation, and reporting to ensure transparency and accountability.

出精値引き (shussei nebiki) is a Japanese term that translates to "special discount" or "courtesy discount" in English. It refers to a price reduction offered by a seller as a gesture of goodwill, often to encourage a sale or to reward a loyal customer.

This type of discount is typically given in special circumstances, such as for large purchases, to long-standing customers, or during negotiations. It is a way for businesses to show appreciation to their customers and foster good relationships, while also potentially boosting sales and customer loyalty.

供託 (kyoutaku) is a Japanese term that translates to "deposit" or "escrow" in English. It refers to the act of depositing money, securities, or other valuables with a government office or a designated entity to fulfill a legal obligation or to ensure the performance of a contract.

In Japan, 供託 is commonly used in various legal and financial contexts. For example, it can be used to settle disputes, provide security for a loan, or ensure the payment of rent or other obligations. The deposited assets are held in trust by the government office or entity until the conditions of the deposit are met or resolved. This system helps to protect the interests of all parties involved and ensures that legal and contractual obligations are fulfilled.

公益法人 (koueki houjin) is a Japanese term that translates to "public interest corporation" or "public benefit corporation" in English. It refers to a type of legal entity established to operate for the public good rather than for profit. These organizations engage in activities that promote social welfare, education, culture, science, and other areas beneficial to the community.

公益法人 can be divided into two main categories: 公益財団法人 (こうえきざいだんほうじん, koueki zaidan houjin), or public interest incorporated foundations, which are typically funded by donations and managed by a board of directors or trustees, and 公益社団法人 (こうえきしゃだんほうじん, koueki shadan houjin), or public interest incorporated associations, which usually have a membership structure and are also governed by a board.

These organizations must meet specific criteria and obtain certification from relevant government authorities to ensure they operate in a manner that serves the public interest. They are subject to regulations and oversight to maintain transparency and accountability in their operations.