Japanese Business Glossary

写し (utsushi) means "copy" or "duplicate" in Japanese. It refers to a reproduction of a document, image, or other original items. This term is often used in various contexts where exact replicas or reproductions are needed.

For example, in legal and administrative settings, utsushi can refer to copies of official documents, such as contracts, identification papers, or certificates. In everyday use, it can refer to photocopies or digital scans of any original material.

Having an utsushi is important for record-keeping, sharing information, and ensuring that important documents are preserved and accessible without needing to handle the original item frequently.

実費 (jippi) means "actual cost" or "out-of-pocket expenses" in Japanese. It refers to the real expenses incurred in the course of a transaction or activity, as opposed to estimated or budgeted costs.

In business and legal contexts, jippi typically includes direct expenses such as materials, labor, and other costs directly related to a specific project or task. It may also cover incidental expenses like travel, accommodation, and other necessary expenditures incurred while performing work or providing a service.

証明書 (shomeisho) means "certificate" or "document of proof" in Japanese. It refers to an official document issued by an authorized body that verifies certain facts or information. These certificates can be used in various contexts, such as identity verification, academic records, professional qualifications, and legal documents. They are essential for various official purposes, including legal proceedings, employment, education, and personal identification. Certificates serve as credible evidence of the information they attest to, ensuring trust and verification in administrative and professional processes.

借換 (karikae) refers to refinancing or loan refinancing in Japanese. It involves replacing an existing loan with a new one, typically to obtain better terms such as lower interest rates, reduced monthly payments, or a different loan duration. Refinancing can apply to various types of loans, including mortgages, personal loans, and business loans.

The primary goal of karikae is to improve the borrower's financial situation by taking advantage of better loan conditions. For instance, a borrower might refinance their mortgage to benefit from a lower interest rate, thereby reducing their overall repayment amount. Additionally, refinancing can help consolidate multiple debts into a single loan, simplifying repayment and potentially reducing costs.

Understanding karikae is crucial for effective financial management, as it provides an opportunity to optimize loan terms and improve cash flow. However, it is important to carefully evaluate the new loan conditions, fees, and potential long-term impact before proceeding with refinancing.

準ずる (junzuru) means "to follow," "to conform to," or "to be based on" in Japanese. It is often used to describe something that adheres to a certain standard, rule, or principle.

For example, in legal or regulatory contexts, junzuru might be used to indicate that certain actions or practices should conform to specific laws or guidelines. In business, it can refer to procedures or operations that are aligned with established standards or protocols.

科料 (karyo) refers to a monetary fine or penalty in Japanese. It is a form of punishment imposed by legal authorities for minor offenses or violations of regulations. The amount of the fine is usually predetermined by law and is meant to serve as a deterrent against unlawful behavior.

Karyo is typically applied for less severe infractions compared to other penalties such as imprisonment or more substantial fines. Examples of situations where karyo might be imposed include minor traffic violations, breaches of municipal ordinances, or other small-scale legal infractions.