Japanese Business Glossary

委託販売 (itaku hanbai) is a Japanese term that refers to consignment sales, a business arrangement where a consignor (usually the owner of goods) entrusts a consignee (typically a retailer) to sell products on their behalf. In this setup, the consignor retains ownership of the goods until they are sold, at which point the consignee earns a commission or fee for facilitating the sale.

This method of sales is beneficial for both parties: the consignor can reach a broader market without the need for their own retail infrastructure, and the consignee can offer a wider range of products without the risk of purchasing inventory upfront. Additionally, itaku hanbai can help businesses manage inventory more efficiently and respond more flexibly to market demand. It is a widely used practice in various industries, including fashion, food, and electronics, promoting collaboration and risk-sharing between suppliers and retailers.

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.

遺族年金 (izoku nenkin) is a Japanese term for survivor's pension, a benefit provided to the family members of a deceased individual who was insured under Japan's public pension system. This pension aims to offer financial support to the bereaved family, typically the spouse and children, ensuring they have some level of economic stability after the loss of a primary breadwinner.

There are different types of izoku nenkin depending on the deceased's employment and insurance status, including the 遺族基礎年金 (izoku kiso nenkin) or Basic Survivor's Pension, and the 遺族厚生年金 (izoku kosei nenkin) or Employees' Survivor's Pension. Eligibility and the amount received depend on various factors, such as the deceased's contribution period to the pension system and the number of dependents. By providing this financial support, izoku nenkin helps alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by families during a difficult time, promoting social welfare and stability.

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.

雇用調整助成金 (koyo chosei joseikin) is a Japanese government subsidy aimed at supporting businesses during economic downturns or crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This subsidy helps companies avoid layoffs by providing financial assistance to employers who need to temporarily reduce their workforce or suspend operations.

By covering a portion of the wages for employees who are placed on leave or work reduced hours, the koyo chosei joseikin ensures that businesses can retain their staff during difficult times. This not only protects jobs but also helps companies maintain their skilled workforce, enabling a quicker recovery once the economic situation improves. The subsidy underscores the Japanese government's commitment to preserving employment stability and supporting both employers and employees during periods of economic uncertainty.