Translation and Meaning of: ストライキ - sutoraiki

The term 「ストライキ」 (sutoraiki) is a direct adaptation from the English "strike," which, in the labor context, refers to a work stoppage by workers as a form of protest or demand for better working conditions, wages, or other rights. This expression was incorporated into the Japanese language, mainly during the modernization period following the Meiji Restoration, which began in 1868, when Japan started opening its ports and modernizing in various areas, including labor relations.

The etymology of 「ストライキ」 (sutoraiki) provides an interesting example of how the Japanese language absorbs foreign influences, especially from English, to describe concepts that it previously did not have. The use of borrowed words, known as "gairaigo," is common in modern Japanese and reflects the social and economic changes that Japan experienced throughout the 20th century, especially after World War II.

Definição e Contexto

In practice, a "ストライキ" (sutoraiki) can take various forms, including:

Work strikes, where employees halt their activities in a company or sector.
Alert strikes that do not necessarily involve complete stoppage, but rather demonstrations and actions to draw attention to the demands.
General strikes, which can involve various sectors and affect society as a whole.

These actions are common in various parts of the world, but in Japan, the cultural and legislative context can influence how strikes are conducted and perceived by society.

Historical Impact and Relevance

Historically, the labor movement in Japan has a complex trajectory, reflecting political, social, and economic changes over time. The first major "ストライキ" (sutoraiki) recorded occurred in the 1920s, and since then, strikes have become an important tool for workers to mobilize in favor of their rights. Despite the continued use of this resource, the Japanese culture that values harmony and consensus can, at times, hinder the popularity of this type of action among workers.

Currently, the words related to labor movements and the protection of workers' rights continue to evolve, with the term 「ストライキ」 (sutoraiki) remaining a vital part of contemporary vocabulary, always associated with struggles for social justice and better living conditions.