Japanese Business Glossary

日本酒度 (nihonshu-do) is a measure used to indicate the sweetness or dryness of Japanese sake. It is determined by the density of the sake relative to water. A positive 日本酒度 value indicates a drier sake, while a negative value suggests a sweeter sake. The scale typically ranges from -20 to +20, with most sakes falling between -5 (sweet) and +10 (dry). This measurement is essential for sake brewers and consumers, as it helps in understanding the flavor profile of the sake. A higher nihonshu-do signifies a lighter and more refreshing taste, often preferred for pairing with savory dishes, while a lower nihonshu-do points to a richer and sweeter flavor, suitable for sipping on its own or pairing with desserts.

二親等 (nishintou) refers to the second degree of kinship in Japanese. This term is used to describe the relationship between an individual and their relatives who are two steps away in the family tree. In the context of family relationships, nishintou includes grandparents, grandchildren, siblings, and the immediate family members of one's spouse, such as parents-in-law.

賠償 (baishou) refers to compensation or indemnification in Japanese. It is the act of providing financial reimbursement or restitution to a party that has suffered loss, damage, or injury due to another party's actions or negligence.

Baishou can occur in various contexts, such as legal disputes, insurance claims, or business transactions. For example, if a company causes environmental damage, it may be required to pay baishou to affected communities or individuals. The goal of baishou is to restore the injured party to the position they were in before the loss occurred, ensuring fairness and accountability.

信用組合 (shinyou kumiai) refers to credit unions in Japan. These are cooperative financial institutions owned and operated by their members, who are typically individuals or small businesses within a specific community or industry. The primary purpose of a shinyou kumiai is to provide its members with affordable financial services, such as savings accounts, loans, and other banking services.

Unlike traditional banks, credit unions are not-for-profit organizations, meaning they prioritize the financial well-being of their members over generating profits. Any surplus income generated by a shinyou kumiai is usually reinvested into the organization or distributed to members as dividends. This community-focused approach helps promote financial inclusion and support local economic development.

高揚 (kouyou) refers to a heightened state of emotion, often characterized by feelings of exhilaration, excitement, or upliftment. This term is used to describe moments when individuals experience a significant boost in their mood or spirits.

In various contexts, such as during a motivational speech, a successful event, or a personal achievement, kouyou can be felt as an intense surge of positive emotions. It signifies a psychological uplift that can enhance motivation, improve morale, and foster a sense of accomplishment or joy.

根拠 (konkyo) in Japanese means "basis," "foundation," or "grounds." It refers to the underlying reason, justification, or evidence that supports a statement, decision, or belief. In various contexts, konkyo is crucial for establishing credibility and legitimacy. For instance, in legal settings, it pertains to the evidence and legal grounds for a case or argument. In business and academic environments, konkyo is essential for validating claims, strategies, or research findings. The concept emphasizes the importance of having a solid and reliable foundation for any assertion or action, ensuring that decisions and opinions are well-supported and trustworthy.