Translation and Meaning of: 経費 - keihi

The Japanese word 経費 (けいひ, keihi) is a common term in the corporate and istrative vocabulary of Japan, but it can also appear in everyday contexts. If you are studying Japanese for business, istration, or simply out of curiosity, understanding its meaning, origin, and practical use can be very helpful. In this article, we will explore everything from the composition of the kanji to how this word is perceived in Japan today.

In addition to uncovering the meaning of 経費, we will see how it differs from similar , its usage in common phrases, and even tips to memorize it more easily. If you have ever wondered how the Japanese deal with expenses at work or what the best way to use this word in conversations is, keep reading!

What does 経費 (けいひ) mean?

経費 is a word composed of the kanji 経 (ke, which can mean "to manage" or "to go through") and 費 (hi, related to "expenses" or "costs"). Together, they form the term that translates as "expenses," "expenditures," or "operating costs." Unlike words like お金 (okane, "money") or 支出 (shishutsu, "personal expenditures"), 経費 has a more istrative connotation, often linked to companies or projects.

In the Japanese corporate environment, 経費 is used to refer to costs necessary to keep a business running, such as office supplies, business travel, or rent. A simple example would be: "このプロジェクトの経費は高い" (The costs of this project are high). It is worth noting that, although it is a formal term, it is not excessively technical and can appear in everyday conversations.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The etymology of 経費 traces back to the classical usage of the kanjis that compose it. The character 経 originates from the idea of "longitudinal thread" or "to manage," while 費 carries the meaning of "spending resources." Together since the Edo period, these kanjis came to represent the necessary expenses for the maintenance of activities, whether in business or government.

Curiously, the kanji 費 also appears in words like 光熱費 (kōnetsuhi, "electricity and gas bill") and 教育費 (kyōikuhi, "education costs"), showing its direct connection with essential expenses. This relationship helps explain why 経費 is so common in financial planning contexts in Japan, whether in small businesses or large corporations.

Tips for memorizing and using 経費

An effective way to reinforce 経費 is to associate it with practical situations. For example, think of "costs that go (経) through the budget as expenses (費)". Another tip is to create flashcards with phrases like "経費を節約する" (save expenses) or "経費がかかる" (incur costs), which are frequently used in work meetings.

For those who enjoy learning with real contexts, it is worth paying attention to Japanese office dramas or economic news, where 経費 appears regularly. Series like "Hanzawa Naoki" or "Shitamachi Rocket" often feature dialogues that illustrate the use of this word well in the Japanese corporate world.