Translation and Meaning of: 月給 - gekyuu

If you are learning Japanese or are curious about work-related , you may have come across the word 月給 (げっきゅう). This article will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will understand why this term is so relevant in the professional context of Japan and how it differs from similar expressions.

月給 (げっきゅう) means "monthly salary" in English.

月給, read as "gekkyū", is a Japanese word that refers to the monthly salary received by a worker. It is composed of two kanji: 月 (moon/month) and 給 (payment/salary), forming the concept of a fixed remuneration paid once a month. Unlike hourly or project-based payment systems, 月給 is common in formal and full-time jobs.

In Japan, this term is widely used in employment contracts and discussions about remuneration. Traditional companies tend to adopt this system, which often includes additional benefits, such as semi-annual bonuses. It is noteworthy that, culturally, 月給 is associated with financial stability, an important value in Japanese society.

Origin and cultural use of 月給

The origin of 月給 dates back to the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan began to modernize its economy and adopt salary systems inspired by the West. Before that, payments in rice or other goods were more common. The word became established with the formalization of wage labor in the 20th century.

Today, the term is so ingrained that it frequently appears in job ments and everyday conversations. An interesting fact is that, although the 月給 system is predominant, many companies also offer 賞与 (しょうよ, bonuses) as part of the annual compensation, reinforcing the culture of rewarding service time.

How to memorize and use 月給 correctly

For those studying Japanese, a useful tip is to associate the kanjis 月給 with its literal meaning: "monthly payment." This helps to differentiate it from like 時給 (じきゅう, hourly wage) or 日給 (にっきゅう, daily wage), which follow the same composition logic.

In conversations, it is common to hear phrases like 「月給はいくらですか？」(What is your monthly salary?). However, asking about salary directly can be considered rude in Japan, unless the context is professional. Therefore, it is important to understand not only the meaning but also the cultural nuances behind the use of this word.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 給与 (Kyūyo) - Total compensation received by an employee, including salaries, bonuses, and other benefits.
• 基本給 (Kihonkyū) - Base salary, excluding bonuses and other compensations.
• 月俸 (Geppō) - Monthly salary, usually fixed, paid each month.
• 月収 (Gesshū) - Total monthly income, which can include salary and other sources of revenue.