Translation and Meaning of: 給与 - kyuuyo

The Japanese word 給与[きゅうよ] is essential for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture, especially in a professional context. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in daily Japanese life. Additionally, we will provide practical tips for memorizing the term and its role in formal and informal situations.

If you've ever wondered how Japanese people talk about salary or remuneration, 給与 is the answer. This word frequently appears in employment contracts, pay slips, and conversations about careers. Here at Suki Nihongo, we aim to provide clear and precise explanations to aid your learning. Let’s dive into the details of this very relevant term.

Meaning and use of 給与 in everyday Japanese

給与[きゅうよ] means "salary" or "remuneration," referring to the payment received for work performed. Unlike 給料[きゅうりょう], which can also be translated as "salary," 給与 has a broader meaning, including benefits and bonuses beyond the base amount. This distinction is important in official documents and labor negotiations.

In Japan, discussing exact values of 給与 in casual conversations is not common, as the subject is considered private. However, in corporate environments, the word appears frequently in evaluation meetings, career plans, and discussions about raises. Companies often use the term in employee manuals and internal communications.

Origin and composition of the kanjis 給与

The word 給与 is formed by two kanji: 給, which means "to provide" or "to grant," and 与, which carries the sense of "to give" or "to offer." Together, they convey the idea of something that is granted in exchange for a service. This composition well reflects the concept of remuneration in the Japanese context, where there is a clear relationship between work and reward.

Interestingly, the kanji 給 also appears in words like 供給[きょうきゅう] (supply) and 自給[じきゅう] (self-sufficiency), showing its connection to the idea of provision. On the other hand, 与 is less common on its own, but appears in like 授与[じゅよ] (granting of awards). This etymology helps to understand why 給与 is the preferred word in formal remuneration contexts.

Tips for memorizing and using 給与 correctly

An effective way to memorize 給与 is to associate it with concrete situations. Think of pay slips, paycheck discussions, or conversations about corporate benefits. Creating flashcards with phrases like "今月の給与はいつ入りますか？" (When will this month's salary be deposited?) can aid in learning. Another strategy is to observe the use of the word in Japanese dramas with corporate themes.

It is important to that 給与 is more formal than 給料, so using the former in casual conversations might sound strange. However, in professional settings, it is the appropriate choice. If you are learning Japanese for business, prioritize this term. One final tip: repeat reading it out loud a few times – the pronunciation "kyuuyo" has a rhythm that makes memorization easier.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 報酬 (Hōshū) - Compensation or reward received for services rendered.
• 賃金 (Chingin) - Salary or payment for work, usually based on hours worked.
• 給金 (Kyūkin) - Payment or subsidy can be used in various contexts, such as government subsidies.
• 給料 (Kyūryō) - Salary, regular payment received from a job, often monthly.