Japanese Business Glossary

係る (kakaru) means "related to" or "pertaining to" in Japanese. It is often used in formal and legal contexts to describe matters, issues, or items that are connected or relevant to a specific subject.

For example, in legal documents, you might see a phrase like "この契約に係る問題" (kono keiyaku ni kakaru mondai), which means "issues related to this contract." It helps specify the scope or relevance of certain information, making it clear what is being referred to or addressed.

扶養者 (fuyosha) refers to a dependent or a person who is supported financially by someone else, typically a family member. In a legal and tax context, a fuyosha is an individual, such as a child, spouse, or elderly parent, who relies on the primary income earner for financial support.

For instance, in the Japanese tax system, the primary income earner may receive tax deductions or benefits for supporting a fuyosha. This designation is important for understanding household finances, tax obligations, and eligibility for various social welfare benefits.

Having a fuyosha affects financial planning and can provide certain tax advantages, making it an important consideration for families and individuals managing their financial responsibilities.

梅酒 (umeshu) is a traditional Japanese liqueur made by steeping ume fruits (Japanese plums) in alcohol and sugar. The result is a sweet and tangy beverage with a rich, fruity flavor. Umeshu is typically made using shochu or sake as the base alcohol, but it can also be prepared with other spirits.

This liqueur has a relatively low alcohol content, usually around 10-15%, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a milder drink. Umeshu can be enjoyed in various ways: neat, on the rocks, diluted with water, or mixed with soda. It is also commonly used in cocktails. Beyond its delightful taste, umeshu is appreciated for its potential health benefits, such as aiding digestion and improving circulation, attributed to the ume fruit. This beverage is a beloved part of Japanese culture, often enjoyed during social gatherings and celebrations.

今際の際 (imawa no kiwa) is a Japanese phrase that refers to the moment of one's death or the final moments of life. It is a poetic and somewhat euphemistic expression, often used in literature, poetry, and philosophical discussions to describe the transition from life to death.

This phrase encapsulates the idea of the last breath or the final moments when a person is on the verge of passing away. In a broader sense, it can also imply a profound and reflective moment, where one contemplates their life and legacy. The term highlights the cultural significance placed on the end of life and the reflections that accompany it, emphasizing the importance of those final moments in the human experience.

ジュニア (junia) is a Japanese term derived from the English word "junior." It is commonly used to refer to children or young people, often indicating a younger version or less experienced individual in various contexts. For example, ジュニア can describe a child participating in a sport or activity, such as a junior tennis player or a junior soccer team member.

The term is also used in educational settings to refer to younger students, such as those in junior high school. In a familial context, ジュニア can be used to denote a son named after his father, similar to the use of "junior" in English-speaking countries. Overall, ジュニア signifies youth, inexperience, or a lower rank compared to a senior counterpart.

関係 (kankei) is a Japanese term that translates to "relationship" or "connection" in English. It is a fundamental concept in Japanese culture and society, emphasizing the importance of interpersonal and social relationships. In various contexts, kankei can refer to personal relationships, such as family and friendships, as well as professional relationships, including business connections and organizational ties.

In the business world, having a good kankei can be crucial for success, as trust and mutual respect are highly valued. Building and maintaining these relationships often involve regular communication, understanding cultural nuances, and showing genuine interest and concern for the other party. Therefore, kankei is not just about the superficial connections but also about the deeper, more meaningful bonds that facilitate cooperation and mutual support.