Japanese Business Glossary

循環型社会 (jyunkan-gata shakai) translates to "circular society" in English. It refers to a sustainable society that aims to minimize waste and make the most of resources by reusing, recycling, and recovering materials. The concept is rooted in the idea of creating a closed-loop system where products and materials are continuously cycled back into use, reducing the need for new resources and minimizing environmental impact.

In a jyunkan-gata shakai, emphasis is placed on reducing waste by designing products that last longer, can be easily repaired, and are made from recyclable materials. It encourages the use of second-hand goods and the refurbishment of products to extend their life cycle. Recycling materials effectively and processing them to be used again in the production of new items is another key aspect. Additionally, it involves recovering energy by utilizing waste that cannot be recycled, such as through incineration with energy recovery.

Japan has been actively promoting the development of a jyunkan-gata shakai through various policies, regulations, and initiatives aimed at sustainable resource management and environmental protection.

In Japanese business terminology, 仕掛 (shikake), mechanism,device, or setup, can have various meanings depending on the context. Commonly, it refers to the mechanisms or setups within a system. In manufacturing, for example, 仕掛品 (shikakehin) means work-in-process items—products that are in production but not yet completed.

In broader terms, shikake can imply strategies, devices, or methods employed to achieve a particular goal. It can refer to physical mechanisms, like machinery components, or abstract strategies, like marketing tactics.

慶弔金 (keichokin) refers to monetary gifts given on occasions of celebration or condolence in Japan. These gifts are a common part of Japanese culture and are usually presented in specific situations such as weddings, funerals, births, or other significant life events.

In the context of a workplace, companies often have a keichokin system as part of their employee welfare programs. This system provides financial support to employees during important personal events. For example, an employee might receive a congratulatory gift for getting married or having a child, or they might receive a condolence gift if they experience a death in the family.

The amount of keichokin varies depending on the occasion and the company's policies. The practice of giving keichokin helps foster a sense of community and support within the organization. It reflects the company's commitment to the well-being of its employees during both happy and challenging times.

慰謝料 (isharyo) refers to consolation or compensation money in Japan. It is typically paid as damages for non-economic losses, such as emotional distress, pain, suffering, or mental anguish. This form of compensation is often seen in legal contexts, particularly in cases involving personal injury, defamation, divorce, or other civil disputes.

Isharyo is distinct from other forms of compensation that might cover economic losses, such as medical expenses or lost wages. Instead, it addresses the emotional and psychological impact of an incident. For example, in a divorce case, one party might be required to pay isharyo to the other for the emotional pain and suffering caused by the breakup.

The amount of isharyo is determined based on various factors, including the severity of the distress, the circumstances of the case, and precedents from similar cases. It is intended to provide a measure of relief and acknowledgment of the non-tangible harm suffered by the affected party.

罰 (batsu) refers to punishment or penalty in Japan. It is a term used to describe the consequences or sanctions imposed on individuals or entities for violating laws, regulations, or rules. The nature and severity of the batsu can vary widely depending on the offense and the legal or organizational context in which it occurs.

In the legal system, batsu can include various forms of penalties such as fines, imprisonment, community service, or other corrective measures. For example, criminal activities such as theft, assault, or fraud can result in legal penalties including incarceration and monetary fines.

In a business context, batsu might refer to penalties imposed for non-compliance with corporate policies, regulatory requirements, or contractual obligations. This can include financial fines, suspension of business operations, or other sanctions.

In everyday situations, batsu can also refer to informal punishments or consequences for breaking social norms or rules, such as reprimands, loss of privileges, or other corrective actions.

玉串料 (tamagushiryo) refers to a monetary offering made at Shinto shrines in Japan. It is a donation given by worshippers during religious ceremonies or visits to the shrine, typically presented as part of a ritual to show respect and gratitude to the deities.

The term tamagushi refers to a sacred offering made of a branch of the sakaki tree, decorated with strips of paper or cloth. In modern practice, instead of offering the physical tamagushi, worshippers often make a monetary donation called tamagushiryo.

This offering is commonly made during various Shinto ceremonies such as weddings, blessings, and other religious events. The amount of the donation can vary depending on the occasion and the financial situation of the worshipper. The act of giving tamagushiryo is considered a gesture of faith and reverence, helping to support the upkeep and activities of the shrine.

In summary, tamagushiryo is a monetary offering made at Shinto shrines as part of religious practices, symbolizing respect and gratitude to the deities and supporting the shrine's functions.