Japanese Business Glossary

準委任契約 (juninin keiyaku) refers to a quasi-mandate contract in Japan, which is a type of agreement where one party (the mandator) entrusts another party (the mandatary) with the performance of specific tasks or duties without transferring authority to make decisions on behalf of the mandator. This contract is characterized by the obligation of the mandatary to act according to the instructions of the mandator, carrying out tasks with diligence and care.

Unlike a full mandate contract, a juninin keiyaku does not grant the mandatary the power to represent the mandator in legal matters. Instead, it focuses on the performance of particular tasks such as consulting, advising, or carrying out specific projects. This type of contract is often used in professional services, where experts are hired to provide their expertise and perform defined duties without taking over decision-making authority. The relationship between the parties is based on trust and cooperation, ensuring that the tasks are completed efficiently and in accordance with the mandator's requirements.

納得 (nattoku) refers to the state of being convinced, satisfied, or understanding something fully. In both personal and business contexts, achieving nattoku involves a process where an individual or group comes to a clear and comprehensive understanding of a situation, decision, or explanation.

For instance, in a business meeting, participants might discuss various aspects of a proposal until everyone is satisfied, ensuring that all concerns are addressed and everyone is on the same page. This concept emphasizes the importance of thorough communication, transparency, and mutual agreement. In negotiations or customer service, ensuring nattoku can lead to better relationships, as it demonstrates respect for different viewpoints and a commitment to clarity and satisfaction.

省令 (shourei) refers to a ministerial ordinance in Japan. These are regulations issued by individual ministries or government agencies to provide detailed guidelines and rules for implementing laws passed by the National Diet, Japan's legislature. Ministerial ordinances have the force of law and are essential for the practical application and enforcement of broader legislative measures.

Shourei typically cover specific areas of administration, such as labor standards, environmental protection, and health regulations. They offer clarity and direction on how to comply with the laws, outlining the procedures, standards, and requirements that must be followed. These ordinances are crucial for ensuring that laws are effectively and consistently enforced, providing the necessary details that enable both public and private entities to operate within the legal framework.

ソフト電池 (sofuto denchi), also known as "soft battery," refers to a type of flexible, rechargeable battery. These batteries are designed to be lightweight, bendable, and often thinner than traditional batteries, making them suitable for use in a variety of applications where flexibility and compactness are crucial.

Soft batteries are typically used in wearable devices, flexible electronics, medical devices, and other innovative technologies that require a power source that can conform to different shapes and sizes. They are often based on advanced materials and technologies, such as solid-state electrolytes or thin-film battery technology, which allow for their unique properties.

売り上げ (uriage) refers to sales or revenue in a business context. It represents the total income generated from the sale of goods or services over a specific period, typically measured in monetary terms. 売り上げ is a crucial indicator of a company's performance and financial health, reflecting the effectiveness of its sales strategies, market demand, and overall business operations.

Monitoring uriage helps businesses assess their growth, identify trends, and make informed decisions about production, marketing, and expansion. It is often analyzed in conjunction with other financial metrics, such as profit margins and expenses, to provide a comprehensive view of the company's economic status.

事業主借 (jigyounushi-kari) refers to "owner's loan" or "owner's borrowing" in a business context. This term is used in the accounting of small businesses or sole proprietorships to indicate the funds that the business owner has borrowed from the business. It represents the amount of money taken out of the business for personal use or to cover personal expenses, which the owner intends to repay at a later date.

In accounting, jigyounushi-kari is recorded as a liability on the balance sheet, reflecting the obligation of the owner to return the borrowed funds to the business. This practice helps keep the business finances separate from the owner's personal finances, ensuring clear and accurate financial reporting. Managing jigyounushi-kari is important for maintaining transparency and accountability in the financial operations of a business, allowing for better tracking of cash flow and financial health.