Japanese Business Glossary

私道 (shido) refers to a private road in Japan, which is owned and maintained by an individual, a group of individuals, or a private entity rather than by the public or the government. These roads are typically found within private properties, residential complexes, or gated communities and are used primarily for access to and from these private areas. The owners of a shido are responsible for its upkeep, including repairs, cleaning, and any necessary improvements. Access to a shido can be restricted by the owners, meaning that it is not open for public use. Understanding the regulations and responsibilities associated with shido is important for property owners and developers to ensure proper maintenance and legal compliance.

慰労 (iro) refers to expressing appreciation and gratitude for someone's hard work and efforts, often through acts of recognition or reward, in Japan. This term is commonly used in workplaces and social settings to acknowledge the dedication and contributions of individuals or teams. Iro can take various forms, such as giving a thank-you note, offering a bonus, organizing a celebration, or providing a day off. The practice of iro is important in fostering a positive environment, boosting morale, and motivating people to continue their good work. It reflects a cultural emphasis on recognizing and valuing the efforts and achievements of others.

配偶者の扶養義務 (haigusha no fuyo gimu) refers to the legal obligation of a spouse to support their partner financially and emotionally in Japan. This duty ensures that both spouses contribute to the well-being and maintenance of the household, providing for basic needs such as food, shelter, healthcare, and education. The obligation extends to situations where one spouse may not be able to support themselves due to reasons such as unemployment, illness, or other circumstances. The concept of haigusha no fuyo gimu is rooted in Japanese family law, which emphasizes mutual support and cooperation between married partners. This legal requirement aims to promote stability and fairness within the marriage, ensuring that both individuals uphold their responsibilities toward each other.

行為 (koi) refers to an act or action taken by an individual, encompassing a wide range of behaviors, deeds, or activities. In legal contexts, koi often denotes a deliberate act that can have legal consequences, such as entering into a contract, committing an offense, or fulfilling an obligation. It implies intentional and voluntary conduct, as opposed to actions that occur accidentally or involuntarily. Understanding koi is essential in various fields, including law, ethics, and psychology, as it helps to determine responsibility, intent, and the impact of an individual's actions on others and society. In everyday use, koi can simply refer to any action or behavior performed by a person in their daily life.

留置 (ryuchi) is a Japanese term that generally refers to detention or custody. It is used in legal contexts to describe the act of detaining a person, typically by law enforcement authorities, for the purpose of investigation or to ensure the person's appearance in court.

In criminal procedure, someone who is arrested may be placed in 留置所 (ryuchijo), which is a detention facility where they are held temporarily during the investigation and before any formal charges or trial.

The purpose of ryuchi is to prevent the suspect from fleeing, destroying evidence, or committing further offenses while the investigation is ongoing.

勧告 (kankoku) refers to a recommendation, advice, or warning issued by an authority or organization in Japan. It is typically used in contexts where an official body, such as a government agency, regulatory authority, or professional organization, advises individuals, companies, or other entities to take specific actions or comply with certain standards. Although kankoku is not legally binding, it carries significant weight and is often taken seriously by the recipients. The purpose of kankoku is to guide behavior, improve practices, ensure safety, or address potential issues before they escalate. By following kankoku, recipients can often avoid more severe consequences, such as legal penalties or reputational damage.