Mistakenly Used Words in Business Japanese33

When conducting business in Japan, it is essential to use the correct language to convey your message effectively. However, there are certain words in Japanese that are often mistaken or misused, especially in a business context. To avoid misunderstandings and ensure clear communication, it is important to be aware of these potential pitfalls and use the appropriate words correctly.

1. 顧客 (Kokkyaku) vs. お客様 (Okkyakusama)

Both 顧客 (kokkyaku) and お客様 (okkyakusama) mean "customer," but they have different levels of politeness. 顧客 is a more neutral and formal term, while お客様 is more polite and respectful. In general, it is better to use お客様 when addressing or referring to customers directly, especially in a business setting. However, if you are writing a more formal document or using a general term, 顧客 may be more appropriate.

2. 担当者 (Tantousha) vs. 責任者 (Sekininmono)

担当者 (tantousha) and 責任者 (sekininmono) both mean "person in charge," but they have slightly different meanings. 担当者 refers to a person who is responsible for a particular task or project, while 責任者 refers to a person who is ultimately responsible for a broader area or department. In a business context, it is important to use the correct term to avoid confusion about who is responsible for what.

3. 予算 (Yosan) vs. 費用 (Hiyou)

予算 (yosan) means "budget," while 費用 (hiyō) means "cost" or "expense." These words are often confused because they both relate to money. However, it is important to use the correct term to avoid misunderstandings. 予算 refers to the amount of money that has been allocated for a specific purpose, while 費用 refers to the actual amount of money that has been spent.

4. 提出 (Teishutsu) vs. 提出する (Teishutsuru)

提出 (teishutsu) means "submission," while 提出する (teishutsuru) means "to submit." These words are often confused because they are related. However, it is important to use the correct term to avoid ambiguity. 提出 refers to the act of submitting something, while 提出する refers to the action of performing the act of submission.

5. 完了 (Kanryo) vs. 終了 (Shuuryou)

完了 (kanryo) means "completion," while 終了 (shūryō) means "conclusion" or "end." These words are often confused because they both refer to the end of something. However, it is important to use the correct term to avoid confusion about what is being referred to. 完了 refers to the state of being complete, while 終了 refers to the act of ending or concluding something.

6. 確認 (Kakunin) vs. 承認 (Shounin)

確認 (kakunin) means "confirmation," while 承認 (shōnin) means "approval." These words are often confused because they both relate to the process of giving consent. However, it is important to use the correct term to avoid misunderstandings about what is being consented to. 確認 refers to the act of verifying or confirming something, while 承認 refers to the act of giving official approval to something.

7. 予定 (Yotei) vs. 計画 (Keikaku)

予定 (yotei) means "schedule" or "plan," while 計画 (keikaku) means "project" or "scheme." These words are often confused because they both relate to the future. However, it is important to use the correct term to avoid confusion about what is being referred to. 予定 refers to a specific time or date for an event or activity, while 計画 refers to a broader plan or project.

8. 対応 (Taiou) vs. 対応策 (Taiousaku)

対応 (taiō) means "response" or "reaction," while 対応策 (taiōsaku) means "countermeasure" or "solution." These words are often confused because they both relate to dealing with a situation. However, it is important to use the correct term to avoid confusion about what is being referred to. 対応 refers to the act of responding or reacting to something, while 対応策 refers to a specific plan or action that is taken to deal with a situation.

9. 是非 (Zehi) vs. ぜひ (Zehi)

是非 (zehi) and ぜひ (zehi) are both pronounced the same, but they have different meanings. 是非 means "yes or no" or "right or wrong," while ぜひ means "by all means" or "please do." It is important to use the correct term to avoid confusion about what is being said. 是非 is used when asking a question or expressing doubt, while ぜひ is used when expressing a request or desire.

10. 頂く (Itadaku) vs. 貰う (Morau)

頂く (itadaku) and 貰う (morau) both mean "to receive," but they have different levels of politeness. 頂く is a more polite and humble way to say "to receive," while 貰う is more casual and direct. In a business context, it is generally better to use 頂く when receiving something from a superior or customer, while 貰う can be used when receiving something from a subordinate or colleague.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common mistakes and using the correct words in business Japanese, you can enhance your communication skills and build stronger relationships with your Japanese colleagues and clients. Language is a powerful tool, and using it correctly can help you succeed in your business endeavors in Japan.

2025-02-02

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