経理
経理 30초 만에
- Refers to accounting and the accounts department in a business context.
- Focuses on internal financial recording, bookkeeping, and expense management.
- Commonly used in job titles (経理担当) and department names (経理部).
- Distinct from 'kaikei' (general accounting/bill) and 'zaimu' (strategic finance).
The Japanese word 経理 (けいり - keiri) is a fundamental term in the world of Japanese business and administration. At its most basic level, it translates to 'accounting' or 'bookkeeping,' but its cultural and functional weight within a Japanese company (kaisha) is significant. It is a compound noun formed from two kanji: 経 (kei), which carries meanings of 'to pass through,' 'manage,' or 'longitude,' and 理 (ri), meaning 'reason,' 'logic,' or 'management.' Together, they describe the systematic and logical management of financial flows within an organization.
- Daily Operations
- In a typical Japanese office, the 経理部 (keiri-bu) or accounting department handles the recording of daily transactions, managing accounts payable and receivable, and processing employee expenses. If you are an employee in Japan, you will interact with the 経理 staff most frequently when submitting your 領収書 (ryoushūsho - receipts) for reimbursement of travel or lunch costs.
- The Scope of Keiri
- While often translated as 'accounting,' 経理 specifically refers to the internal processing of financial data. It is distinct from 財務 (zaimu - finance), which focuses on raising capital and investment strategies, and 会計 (kaikei), which is a broader term encompassing the entire field of accountancy, including external auditing and public reporting.
彼はメーカーの経理部門で働いています。
(He works in the accounting department of a manufacturer.)
The term is ubiquitous in job listings, organizational charts, and career discussions. For a professional in Japan, having 'keiri' experience is considered a stable and respectable career path, often seen as the 'backbone' of the company's integrity. During the 'settlement of accounts' period (決算期 - kessanki), usually around March in Japan, the 経理 staff are notoriously busy, often working late hours to ensure every yen is accounted for before the new fiscal year begins in April.
来月は決算なので、経理は大忙しだ。
(Since next month is the closing of accounts, the accounting department is extremely busy.)
- Keiri vs. Kaikei
- Learners often confuse these two. Think of 経理 as the 'process' and the 'department' (internal), while 会計 is the 'system' or 'science' of accounting (broad/external). If you are paying at a restaurant, you ask for 'kaikei,' never 'keiri.'
Furthermore, 経理 is not just about numbers; it involves strict adherence to Japanese tax laws and corporate regulations. A person skilled in 経理 must be meticulous (幾帳面 - kichoumen) and have a deep understanding of standard operating procedures. In smaller companies, the 経理 person might also handle human resources and general affairs, a role often called 経理・総務 (keiri/soumu).
経理の知識は、起業する際にも非常に役立ちます。
(Knowledge of accounting is also very useful when starting a business.)
Using 経理 correctly requires understanding its role as a noun that can function as a modifier or the subject/object of a sentence. It is frequently paired with words like 担当 (tantou - in charge of), 処理 (shori - processing), and 業務 (gyoumu - business/work). Let's explore how it fits into different grammatical structures common in the Japanese workplace.
- As a Job Title or Role
- When describing what someone does, you often use the construction 'Person + は + 経理 + です' or 'Person + は + 経理 + を担当しています'. This clarifies their professional focus within the company hierarchy.
新入社員の田中さんは、今日から経理チームに配属されました。
(The new employee, Mr. Tanaka, was assigned to the accounting team starting today.)
In a professional email, you might refer to the department directly. For example, when asking about a payment status, you would write to the '経理御中' (Keiri Onchu - To the Accounting Department). This level of formality is standard in B2B communications in Japan.
- Describing Actions (Verbal Noun usage)
- While 経理 is primarily a noun, it describes the action of managing finances. You will see it combined with 処理 (processing) to form 経理処理 (accounting processing). This refers to the actual act of data entry and ledger balancing.
月末までに全ての経理処理を終わらせなければなりません。
(We must finish all accounting processing by the end of the month.)
Another common usage is in the context of software. '経理ソフト' (keiri sofuto) refers to accounting software like Freee, Yayoi, or Money Forward, which are widely used by Japanese SMEs. In these contexts, 経理 describes the purpose of the tool.
クラウド型の経理システムを導入することで、業務の効率化を図る。
(We aim to improve business efficiency by introducing a cloud-based accounting system.)
- Compound Nouns
- 経理規程 (keiri kitei) - Accounting regulations.
経理伝票 (keiri denpyou) - Accounting vouchers/slips.
経理士 (keirishi) - An older or more specific term for an accountant (though 公認会計士 - kounin kaikeishi is the standard for CPA).
When discussing personal skills, one might say '経理の知識がある' (I have knowledge of accounting) or '経理の経験が豊富だ' (I have extensive experience in accounting). These phrases are essential for building a professional resume (履歴書) in Japan.
実務未経験でも、経理の資格を持っていれば採用に有利です。
(Even without practical experience, having an accounting qualification is an advantage for hiring.)
In Japan, the word 経理 is not confined to textbooks; it is a word you will hear daily if you work in any corporate environment. It appears in casual office conversations, formal meetings, news broadcasts regarding corporate scandals or profits, and even in television dramas set in workplaces.
- In the Office (The 'Keiri-bu' Interaction)
- The most common place to hear the word is when colleagues talk about administrative tasks. '経理に聞いてみて' (Try asking accounting) is a standard response when someone is unsure about budget allocations or expense rules. The accounting department is often seen as the 'gatekeeper' of company funds, so their name is invoked whenever money is discussed.
「この領収書、経理で落とせますか?」
(“Can I write off this receipt through accounting?”)
This specific phrase '経理で落とす' (keiri de otosu) is a very common idiomatic expression meaning 'to charge to the company' or 'to claim as a business expense.' It is heard frequently during business dinners or when purchasing office supplies.
- In Media and News
- When news outlets report on a company's financial health, they might mention '経理上の問題' (accounting issues) or '不適切な経理' (inappropriate accounting/window dressing). In these contexts, 経理 represents the integrity of the company's financial reporting. If a company is caught in a scandal, the term '粉飾決算' (funshoku kessan - window dressing) is often linked to failures in the 経理 department.
その企業は長年にわたり、不適切な経理を行っていたことが判明した。
(It was revealed that the company had been performing inappropriate accounting for many years.)
In recruitment and education, you will hear about '日商簿記' (Nisshou Boki), which is the standard bookkeeping certification. People will say, '経理の仕事に就くために簿記を勉強しています' (I am studying bookkeeping to get a job in accounting). Here, 経理 is the career goal, and 簿記 is the technical skill.
中小企業の経理は、一人で全てをこなすことも珍しくありません。
(It is not uncommon for a single person to handle all the accounting in a small or medium-sized enterprise.)
Finally, you will hear it in the context of Digital Transformation (DX). With the introduction of the 'Invoice System' (インボイス制度) in Japan in 2023, the word 経理 has been in the headlines constantly as companies scramble to update their '経理システム' (accounting systems) to comply with new tax laws. This has made 経理 a hot topic even for those who don't work in finance.
While 経理 seems straightforward, English speakers and Japanese learners often make several nuanced mistakes when using it. The most frequent errors involve confusing it with related financial terms or using it in inappropriate social contexts.
- Mistake 1: Using 'Keiri' at a Restaurant
- This is the 'classic' mistake. In English, 'accounting' and 'the bill' are separate, but in Japanese, learners often see 'accounting' in the dictionary for 経理 and try to use it to pay. You must use 会計 (kaikei) or お勘定 (okanjou) at a restaurant. Saying 'Keiri onegaishimasu' to a waiter would sound like you are asking them to manage your company's books.
❌ レストランで「経理をお願いします」と言う。
✅ 「お会計をお願いします」と言う。
(Saying 'Keiri' at a restaurant is wrong; use 'Kaikei'.)
Another common confusion is between 経理 and 財務 (zaimu). While both involve money, their functions are polar opposites in a corporate structure. 経理 looks backward (recording what has already happened), while 財務 looks forward (deciding how to spend or raise money for the future). Confusing these in a job interview could signal a lack of business understanding.
- Mistake 2: Over-using it as a Verb
- Learners often try to say 'Keiri suru' to mean 'to do accounting.' While technically understandable, it sounds unnatural. Natural Japanese uses '経理の仕事をする' (do accounting work) or '経理処理を行う' (perform accounting processing). The word 経理 is a solid noun and prefers to stay that way.
❌ 毎日一時間、経理します。
✅ 毎日一時間、経理業務を行います。
(Instead of 'I accounting for an hour,' say 'I perform accounting tasks.')
A third mistake is the confusion with 簿記 (boki). 簿記 is the skill or method of bookkeeping (double-entry). 経理 is the department or the overall function. You study 簿記 to work in 経理. You wouldn't say 'I am the boki of this company'—you are the 'keiri tantou' (person in charge of accounting).
❌ 私はこの会社の簿記です。
✅ 私はこの会社の経理担当です。
(Don't say 'I am the bookkeeping'; say 'I am the accounting person.')
To truly master 経理, you must understand how it sits within a cluster of related financial terms. Choosing the right one depends on the scale, the formality, and whether you are talking about a person, a process, or a concept.
- 会計 (Kaikei) - The Broad Term
- As mentioned, this is the umbrella term for 'accountancy.' It is used for the academic subject, the professional field (CPA), and also for 'the bill' at a shop. While 経理 is the 'input' (daily work), 会計 is often the 'output' (financial statements).
- 財務 (Zaimu) - Financial Management
- 財務 focuses on the procurement of funds, investment, and capital structure. In a large corporation, the 経理部 and 財務部 are separate. 経理 counts the money they have; 財務 plans how to get more and where to put it.
- 簿記 (Boki) - Bookkeeping
- This refers specifically to the technical method of recording financial transactions. It is a skill set. When someone says they have 'Boki 2-kyu' (Bookkeeping Level 2), they are describing their technical proficiency, which qualifies them to work in 経理.
大手企業では、経理と財務が完全に分かれています。
(In large companies, accounting and finance are completely separated.)
There is also 主計 (shukei), a more formal or government-oriented term for budget management or 'the comptroller.' You will hear this in the context of the Ministry of Finance (財務省). For a regular business context, stick to 経理.
- Comparison Table
- 経理 (Keiri): Daily internal accounting, employee expenses, tax prep.
- 会計 (Kaikei): General term, external reporting, paying a bill.
- 財務 (Zaimu): Strategic funding, investments, cash flow planning.
- 簿記 (Boki): The technical skill of entry and balancing.
In casual conversation, if you want to say you are 'good with money' or 'good at managing your own budget,' you would use the phrase やりくり (yarikuri) or 家計管理 (kakei kanri). Using 経理 for your personal wallet would sound overly formal, as if you were running your household like a multinational corporation.
彼女は経理のプロですが、自分の家計簿をつけるのは苦手です。
(She is a professional at accounting, but she is bad at keeping her own household budget.)
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
While 'Keiri' in modern Japanese is strictly about money, in modern Chinese 'Jīnglǐ' (经理) actually means 'Manager' (the person). In Japanese, a manager is usually 'Bucho' or 'Manager' (katakana).
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'kei' as 'key'. It should be 'kay'.
- Pronouncing 'ri' as a hard English 'r'. It should be a light tap.
- Confusing it with 'kairei' or 'keirei'.
- Using an English 'L' sound for the 'r'.
- Stress on the wrong syllable; Japanese syllables usually have equal length.
난이도
Kanji are common but require N3/N2 level recognition.
Writing 'Kei' (経) can be tricky for beginners.
Pronunciation is simple and common.
Easily distinguishable in a business context.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
N1 + の + N2 (Noun Modifier)
経理の仕事 (Accounting work)
N + を担当する (To be in charge of)
経理を担当しています。
N + に基づいて (Based on)
経理規程に基づいて処理する。
N + として (As a...)
経理担当として働いています。
N + 上の (Related to/In terms of)
経理上の理由で不可能です。
수준별 예문
母は経理の仕事をしています。
My mother does accounting work.
The particle 'no' links 'keiri' (accounting) to 'shigoto' (work).
経理部はどこですか?
Where is the accounting department?
Adding 'bu' to 'keiri' makes it 'accounting department'.
彼は経理です。
He is in accounting.
Simple 'A wa B desu' structure.
経理は難しいですか?
Is accounting difficult?
Using 'keiri' as the subject of a question.
田中さんは経理の人です。
Mr. Tanaka is the accounting person.
'No hito' is a common way to describe someone's role casually.
私は経理が好きです。
I like accounting.
Using the 'ga suki' pattern.
あそこに経理の本があります。
There is an accounting book over there.
Existence sentence with 'arimasu'.
経理を勉強します。
I will study accounting.
Using 'keiri' as the direct object of 'benkyou shimasu'.
経理部に領収書を出しました。
I submitted the receipt to the accounting department.
The particle 'ni' indicates the destination of the action.
明日から経理の研修があります。
There is accounting training starting tomorrow.
'Kara' means 'from' or 'starting from'.
経理の仕事は忙しいです。
Accounting work is busy.
Adjective 'isogashii' describing the noun phrase.
彼女は経理が上手です。
She is good at accounting.
'Ga jouzu' indicates proficiency.
経理のソフトを使いますか?
Do you use accounting software?
Compound noun 'keiri no sofuto'.
経理の人に聞いてください。
Please ask the accounting person.
'Kite kudasai' is the polite request form of 'kiku'.
経理の経験はありますか?
Do you have experience in accounting?
'Keiken' means experience.
この会社には経理が三人います。
There are three accounting people in this company.
Using the counter 'nin' for people.
経理処理を月末までに終わらせる必要があります。
It is necessary to finish the accounting processing by the end of the month.
'Hitsuyou ga arimasu' expresses necessity.
経理の知識を活かして、新しい仕事を始めたいです。
I want to start a new job, utilizing my accounting knowledge.
'Ikashite' is the te-form of 'ikasu' (to leverage/utilize).
経理担当者は、正確さが求められます。
Accuracy is required of accounting personnel.
Passive form 'motomeraremasu' (is required).
経理のミスを修正するのに時間がかかりました。
It took time to correct the accounting mistake.
'No ni' indicates the purpose or time spent on an action.
経理上のルールを確認してください。
Please check the accounting rules.
'Jou no' means 'related to' or 'from the standpoint of'.
彼は簿記二級を持っていて、経理に詳しいです。
He has level 2 bookkeeping and is knowledgeable about accounting.
'Ni kuwashii' means to be well-informed about something.
経理の仕事は、ルーチンワークが多いです。
Accounting work involves a lot of routine tasks.
'Ooi' is an adjective meaning many/much.
経理部にメールで問い合わせました。
I made an inquiry to the accounting department by email.
'De' indicates the means (email).
不適切な経理が発覚し、社長が謝罪しました。
Inappropriate accounting was discovered, and the president apologized.
'Hakkaku shi' is the stem form of 'hakkaku suru', used to link sentences.
経理システムの刷新により、コスト削減を実現した。
We achieved cost reduction by renewing the accounting system.
'Ni yori' indicates the means or cause.
経理規程に基づいて、出張費を精算します。
I will settle travel expenses based on the accounting regulations.
'Ni motoduite' means 'based on'.
経理の観点から見ると、このプロジェクトはリスクが高い。
From an accounting perspective, this project is high risk.
'Kanten kara miru to' means 'looking from the viewpoint of'.
彼は経理の実務経験が10年以上あります。
He has over 10 years of practical experience in accounting.
'Jitsumu keiken' refers to hands-on, practical experience.
経理部門のデジタル化を推進することが急務だ。
Promoting the digitalization of the accounting department is an urgent task.
'Kyuumu' means urgent business/task.
経理の仕事は、会社の信頼性を支える重要な役割です。
Accounting work is an important role that supports the company's credibility.
'Sasaeru' means to support or sustain.
複雑な経理処理を自動化するツールを導入した。
We introduced a tool to automate complex accounting processes.
Relative clause modifying 'tsuuru' (tool).
連結経理の導入により、グループ全体の財務状況が可視化された。
The introduction of consolidated accounting visualized the financial status of the entire group.
'Kashika' means visualization.
経理の透明性を高めることが、投資家からの信頼につながる。
Increasing accounting transparency leads to trust from investors.
'Ni tsunagaru' means 'to lead to' or 'be linked to'.
税務当局による経理調査に備えて、書類を整理しておく。
Organize documents in preparation for an accounting audit by tax authorities.
'Ni sonaete' means 'in preparation for'.
経理担当役員として、コンプライアンスの徹底を指示した。
As the director in charge of accounting, I instructed thorough compliance.
'Tettei' means thoroughness or consistency.
経理基準の国際的な調和が求められている。
International harmonization of accounting standards is being called for.
'Chouwa' means harmony or coordination.
経理の自動化が進む中で、人間にしかできない付加価値が問われている。
As accounting automation progresses, the added value that only humans can provide is being questioned.
'Naka de' sets the context of an ongoing trend.
不適切な経理操作は、企業の存続を揺るがす事態になりかねない。
Inappropriate accounting manipulation could potentially shake the very existence of a company.
'Ni kanenai' means 'could possibly (result in a bad outcome)'.
経理の専門性を高めるために、公認会計士の資格取得を目指す。
To increase accounting expertise, I aim to obtain a CPA qualification.
'Senmonsei' means expertise or specialization.
経理という職能は、単なる記帳業務を超え、戦略的な意思決定を支えるインテリジェンスへと変貌を遂げている。
The function of accounting has evolved beyond mere bookkeeping into intelligence that supports strategic decision-making.
'Henbou o togeru' is a sophisticated way to say 'to undergo a transformation'.
粉飾経理の手口が巧妙化しており、監査法人の役割はかつてないほど重要になっている。
The methods of window-dressing accounting are becoming more sophisticated, making the role of auditing firms more important than ever.
'Katsutenai hodo' means 'to an unprecedented degree'.
経理の健全性は、資本主義社会における市場の公正性を担保する基盤である。
The soundness of accounting is the foundation that guarantees market fairness in a capitalist society.
'Tanpou suru' means to guarantee or provide collateral for.
デジタル・フォレンジック技術を駆使して、経理データの改ざんを暴く。
Reveal the falsification of accounting data by making full use of digital forensic technology.
'Kushi shite' means 'making full use of'.
経理部門のリーダーには、数字を読む力だけでなく、倫理観と組織を動かす人間力が求められる。
Accounting leaders are required to have not only the ability to read numbers but also a sense of ethics and the personal magnetism to move an organization.
'Ningen-ryoku' is a deep Japanese concept of 'human power' or 'personal strength'.
グローバル企業の経理は、各国の税制や会計慣行の相違を乗り越える高度な調整能力を必要とする。
Accounting for global companies requires advanced coordination skills to overcome differences in national tax systems and accounting practices.
'Norikoeru' means to overcome or surmount.
経理の歴史を紐解くと、それは人類が経済活動をいかに体系化してきたかの歴史そのものであることがわかる。
Unraveling the history of accounting reveals it to be the history of how humanity has systematized economic activity.
'Himotoku' means to unroll a scroll, or metaphorically, to unravel/study history.
経理の自動化が極限まで進んだ未来において、経理担当者の存在意義はどこに求められるのだろうか。
In a future where accounting automation has progressed to the extreme, where will the significance of the accounting professional's existence be found?
'Sonzai igi' means 'the meaning of existence' or 'raison d'être'.
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— To charge something to the company as a business expense.
この飲み代は経理で落とせますか?
— To send a document (like an invoice) to the accounting department for processing.
この請求書、経理に回しておいて。
— The accounting books for a period are closed/finalized.
月末で経理が締まるので急いでください。
— Knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
経理の知識を身につけたい。
— Having no prior experience in accounting work.
経理未経験でも歓迎します。
— A professional/expert in the field of accounting.
彼は経理のプロとして信頼されている。
— To entrust the accounting duties to someone.
妻に家の経理を任せている。
— Streamlining or making the accounting process more efficient.
経理の合理化を推進する。
— The two main functions of corporate finance: internal accounting and external funding.
経理と財務の違いを説明する。
— A professional career path within the accounting field.
経理のキャリアを積む。
자주 혼동되는 단어
Kaikei is broader and used for restaurant bills. Keiri is specific to corporate internal accounting.
Zaimu is about fundraising and strategy. Keiri is about recording and reporting.
Sounds similar but means to organize or tidy up. Don't mix them up!
관용어 및 표현
— Haphazard or loose money management, without keeping proper records.
そんなどんぶり勘定では会社が潰れてしまう。
Casual— To make the ends meet or to make the numbers balance, sometimes suspiciously.
何とかして帳尻を合わせなければならない。
Neutral— Being in desperate financial straits (literally 'a cart of fire').
会社の経理状況は火の車だ。
Casual/Idiomatic— To suffer a financial loss personally (literally 'one's pocket hurts').
経理で落とせれば、自分の懐は痛まない。
Casual— To calculate or weigh the pros and cons (literally 'to flick the abacus').
彼は常に損得の算盤を弾いている。
Traditional— Counting your chickens before they hatch (calculating profit prematurely).
捕らぬ狸の皮算用はよせ。
Common— To record a loss/deficit.
今期は経理上、赤字を出してしまった。
Neutral— To turn a profit (move into the black).
経理の努力で、ようやく黒字に転じた。
Business— To go over budget.
予算から足が出てしまった。
Casual— To line one's pockets (make a lot of money).
不正な経理で自分の懐を潤した。
Negative/Formal혼동하기 쉬운
Both relate to accounting records.
Boki is the technical skill of bookkeeping. Keiri is the job or department that uses that skill.
簿記二級を取得して、経理に転職した。
Both involve managing money.
Shukei is more formal and used for budgeting in government. Keiri is the standard term for private companies.
財務省の主計局が予算を組む。
Both involve accounting books.
Kessan is the specific event of closing the books at the end of the year. Keiri is the ongoing work.
三月は経理部にとって決算の時期だ。
Both mean calculation/paying.
Kanjou is often used for personal calculations or paying a bill at a bar/restaurant. Keiri is professional.
お勘定をお願いします。
Both involve money moving.
Furikomi is the act of bank transfer. Keiri is the management of such transactions.
経理が取引先に振込を行う。
문장 패턴
私は[経理]です。
私は経理です。
[経理]部に行きます。
経理部に行きます。
[経理]の知識を活かす。
経理の知識を活かす。
[経理]規程に従う。
経理規程に従う。
[経理]の透明性を高める。
経理の透明性を高める。
[経理]で落とす。
経理で落とす。
[経理]の人に聞く。
経理の人に聞く。
[経理]システムを刷新する。
経理システムを刷新する。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
형용사
관련
사용법
High in business settings; low in casual social settings.
-
Asking for 'Keiri' at a restaurant.
→
Asking for 'Kaikei' or 'Okanjou'.
Keiri is for corporate accounting. Using it at a restaurant is like asking the waiter to show you their corporate tax returns.
-
Using 'Keiri' for personal budgeting.
→
Using 'Kakei' (household finances).
Keiri sounds like a business operation. For your own wallet, 'Kakei' is the appropriate word.
-
Saying 'I am a Keiri' (person).
→
Saying 'I am a Keiri-tantou' or 'Keiri-bu no hito'.
Keiri is the function/department. You need to add 'tantou' (person in charge) to refer to yourself.
-
Confusing 'Keiri' with 'Seiri'.
→
Distinguishing the sounds clearly.
Seiri means to organize or tidy up. Saying you work in 'Seiri' might mean you are a professional cleaner!
-
Using 'Keiri' for government budgets.
→
Using 'Kaikei' or 'Shukei'.
Public accounting has its own set of terms; Keiri is primarily a private-sector business term.
팁
Use in Business Cards
If your job involves accounting, ensure '経理' is on your business card. It's a clear, professional descriptor.
Pair with Boki
If you want to work in Japan, learn 'Keiri' alongside 'Boki' (bookkeeping) terms to build a professional vocabulary.
Respect the Receipts
In Japan, 'Keiri' staff are very strict about receipts. Always keep your '領収書' (ryoushūsho) if you want to be reimbursed.
Noun Modifier
Remember that 'Keiri' is almost always a noun. Use 'no' to connect it to other things like 'Keiri no sensei' (Accounting teacher).
Stability
If you are looking for a stable job with less overtime (except at month-end), 'Keiri' is a traditionally safe choice.
Don't say Keiri-suru
It sounds a bit clunky. Use 'Keiri no shigoto o suru' or 'Keiri tantou desu' instead.
Software names
Familiarize yourself with 'Keiri soft' like Yayoi or Freee if you plan to work in a Japanese office.
Expense Talk
Use 'Keiri de otoseru?' cautiously. Asking it too much might make you look like you are taking advantage of the company.
Contextual Cues
If you hear 'Getsumatsu' (end of month) and 'Isogashii' (busy), the speaker is almost certainly talking about 'Keiri'.
Kanji Practice
Practice writing '経' (kei) as it appears in many other words like 'Keizai' (Economy) and 'Keiken' (Experience).
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'KEI' as 'K' (Key) and 'RI' as 'RE' (Records). Accounting is the 'Key to the Records' (Kei-Ri).
시각적 연상
Imagine a person sitting at a desk with an abacus (soroban) and a large ledger book, carefully checking every entry.
Word Web
챌린지
Try to find the 'Keiri-bu' (Accounting Dept) the next time you are in a Japanese office building or look for it in a Japanese job search app.
어원
Derived from the Classical Chinese 'jīnglǐ' (经理), meaning to manage or administer affairs. The kanji '経' (kei) originally referred to the warp threads in weaving, evolving to mean 'to manage' or 'to pass through.' '理' (ri) refers to the patterns in jade, meaning 'reason' or 'logic.'
원래 의미: Managing things according to logic or principle.
Sino-Japanese (Kango)문화적 맥락
Be careful not to imply that 経理 is 'just' bookkeeping; it is a vital management function. Also, never use 'keiri' when you mean to pay a restaurant bill.
In English, we use 'Accounting' for both the job and the field. In Japanese, 経理 is more about the internal corporate function.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
Office Expense Reimbursement
- 領収書を出す
- 精算をお願いする
- 経理に確認する
- 経費で落とす
Job Interview
- 経理の経験があります
- 簿記二級を持っています
- 経理の実務を学びたい
- 正確な処理が得意です
Business News
- 経理上のミス
- 不適切な経理操作
- 決算発表
- 利益を計上する
Starting a Business
- 経理をアウトソーシングする
- 経理ソフトを選ぶ
- 青色申告
- 帳簿をつける
Internal Meetings
- 経理部からの報告
- 予算の執行状況
- 経理システムの刷新
- コスト削減案
대화 시작하기
"お仕事は何をされているんですか?経理ですか?"
"月末の経理処理、もう終わりましたか?"
"この領収書、経理で通りますかね?"
"最近、新しい経理ソフトを導入したそうですね。"
"経理の仕事で一番大変なことは何ですか?"
일기 주제
もし自分が経理だったら、どんなことに気をつけますか?
今日、自分のお金の管理(経理)はどうでしたか?
日本の経理システムについて、どう思いますか?
経理の仕事に興味がありますか?その理由は何ですか?
会社における経理の重要性について書いてください。
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문No, that is a common mistake. You should use 'Kaikei' or 'Okanjou'. 'Keiri' refers to the accounting department or the professional function of accounting.
Think of 'Keiri' as the internal department and the daily work of recording company money. 'Kaikei' is the broader term for the science of accounting and is also used for public/external reporting and shop bills.
Yes, it is considered a very stable and respectable career. Every company needs 'Keiri' staff, and skilled accountants are always in demand, especially those with 'Boki' qualifications.
You can say '経理の仕事をしています' (Keiri no shigoto o shiteimasu) or '経理部に所属しています' (Keiribu ni shozoku shiteimasu).
It means 'to write off as a business expense.' It's a common phrase used when you want the company to pay for something like a business dinner or travel.
While you can understand the sound, knowing the Kanji (経理) is essential for reading office signs, business cards, and job listings in Japan.
It is the Accounting Department. 'Bu' means department or club.
The busiest time is usually the end of the fiscal year, which in Japan is March. This is called 'Kessanki' (settlement period).
Yes, even in a small shop, the person handling the books is doing 'Keiri,' though they might not have a dedicated department.
In many Japanese companies, 'Keiri' handles payroll, though in larger ones, it might be handled by 'Jinji' (Human Resources).
셀프 테스트 191 질문
Translate to Japanese: 'I work in the accounting department.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Is this an accounting mistake?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'I want to study accounting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Please submit the receipt to accounting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'He is in charge of accounting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Accounting software is useful.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'March is busy for accounting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'I have accounting experience.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Inappropriate accounting is a problem.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'We introduced a new accounting system.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Please follow the accounting regulations.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Accounting transparency is important.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'I am looking for an accounting job.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Can I claim this as a business expense?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Accounting processing takes time.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'He is a professional in accounting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Consolidated accounting is difficult.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'I update the ledger every day.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'The accounting team is small.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Translate to Japanese: 'Accuracy is required in accounting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Introduce yourself as an accounting staff member.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask where the accounting department is.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Tell your boss that the accounting processing is finished.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask if you can claim a lunch receipt as an expense.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain that you have 3 years of accounting experience.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Suggest introducing a new accounting software.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say that you are busy because of the end-of-month accounting.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask the accounting person to check a document.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
State that you want to get a bookkeeping qualification for your career.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Discuss the importance of accounting transparency.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Inform the team about the new accounting regulations.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask a coworker which accounting software they recommend.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say that accounting work requires a lot of concentration.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Explain why you chose an accounting career.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Talk about the pros and cons of automating accounting.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask if there are any accounting clerical jobs available.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Confirm that the accounting data is accurate.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Warn someone about the risks of inappropriate accounting.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say that you will consult with the accounting department.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Express your goal to become a CFO through accounting experience.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to the description: 'I record daily sales and manage receipts.' What is my job?
Listen: 'Please go to the 3rd floor for expense reimbursement.' Which department is there?
Listen: 'We need to close the books by Friday.' What task is being discussed?
Listen: 'He has Boki Level 1.' What field does he likely work in?
Listen: 'The accounting software is having an error.' What needs fixing?
Listen: 'Inappropriate accounting was found in the audit.' What was found?
Listen: 'March is busy, but April is quieter.' Why is March busy?
Listen: 'I am the person in charge of accounting.' Who am I?
Listen: 'Please follow the company's accounting rules.' What should be followed?
Listen: 'Consolidated accounting reports are due.' What kind of accounting?
Listen: 'I study accounting at university.' What is the subject?
Listen: 'The accounting department is recruiting.' What job is available?
Listen: 'The accounting processing is automated.' How is it done?
Listen: 'He is a veteran in accounting.' How is his experience?
Listen: 'Accounting transparency improved the stock price.' What improved?
/ 191 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
経理 (keiri) is the backbone of Japanese business administration, focusing on the meticulous recording of daily financial transactions. If you're working in Japan, this is the department you visit to get reimbursed for your travel expenses.
- Refers to accounting and the accounts department in a business context.
- Focuses on internal financial recording, bookkeeping, and expense management.
- Commonly used in job titles (経理担当) and department names (経理部).
- Distinct from 'kaikei' (general accounting/bill) and 'zaimu' (strategic finance).
Use in Business Cards
If your job involves accounting, ensure '経理' is on your business card. It's a clear, professional descriptor.
Pair with Boki
If you want to work in Japan, learn 'Keiri' alongside 'Boki' (bookkeeping) terms to build a professional vocabulary.
Respect the Receipts
In Japan, 'Keiri' staff are very strict about receipts. Always keep your '領収書' (ryoushūsho) if you want to be reimbursed.
Noun Modifier
Remember that 'Keiri' is almost always a noun. Use 'no' to connect it to other things like 'Keiri no sensei' (Accounting teacher).
예시
経理部に書類を提出してください。
관련 콘텐츠
이 단어를 다른 언어로
business 관련 단어
遅めに
B1보통보다 조금 늦게. 또는 의도적으로 늦은 시간에.
的確な
B1문제의 핵심을 정확하게 찌르는 지적.
達成する
B1목표를 이루거나 계획한 일을 끝마치는 것. 노력 끝에 얻은 성공을 의미합니다.
活性化
B2어떤 것의 기능을 활발하게 함. 경제나 지역 사회의 활력을 되찾는 일.
付加
B2이미 있는 것에 다른 것을 덧붙임. 가치나 기능을 높이기 위해 사용됨. '제품에 새로운 기능을 부가하다.'
優位性
B2우위성(優位性)은 다른 사람들보다 우월하거나 유리한 위치에 있는 상태를 의미합니다. 기업은 혁신적인 기술을 통해 경쟁 우위(優位性)를 가질 수 있습니다. 스포츠에서는 승리를 위해 신체적 우위(優位性)를 추구합니다.
有利
A2자신에게 이익이 되거나 남보다 좋은 조건에 있는 상태를 의미합니다.
有利に
B1유리하게; 이롭게.
宣伝する
B1상품이나 서비스, 생각 등을 널리 알려서 사람들의 관심을 끄는 것.
合意する
B1서로의 의견이나 의사가 일치함. 특히 계약이나 협상에서 양측이 정식으로 결정하는 것.