責務
責務 in 30 Seconds
- A formal word for 'duty' or 'obligation' tied to a role.
- Used in professional, legal, and moral contexts.
- Heavier and more serious than the common word 'sekinin'.
- Commonly paired with 'hatasu' (fulfill) and 'ou' (bear).
The Japanese word 責務 (sekimu) is a high-register noun that signifies a profound sense of duty, obligation, or a task that one is morally or legally bound to fulfill. While it is often translated simply as 'duty,' its nuance is much heavier and more formal than the common word 責任 (sekinin). To understand 責務, one must look at the kanji: 責 (seki) meaning 'blame,' 'condemn,' or 'responsibility,' and 務 (mu) meaning 'task,' 'duty,' or 'service.' Together, they form a concept that describes a burden of responsibility that is inherent to one's position, role, or professional standing. In Japanese society, where roles and social hierarchies are clearly defined, 責務 represents the weight of the expectations placed upon an individual by their community, employer, or the state. It is not just a job description; it is a moral imperative. You will most frequently encounter this word in formal speeches, legal documents, corporate mission statements, and serious news broadcasts. For example, a doctor has a 責務 to save lives, a politician has a 責務 to represent the people, and a company director has a 責務 to protect the interests of shareholders. It implies a 'noble' or 'grave' obligation that cannot be easily set aside. Unlike 義務 (gimu), which often refers to legal requirements like paying taxes or compulsory education, 責務 carries a stronger connotation of active, professional, and ethical dedication. It is the 'mission' one must carry out to maintain the integrity of their role. In a workplace setting, using 責務 instead of 責任 elevates the conversation, signaling that the speaker views their role with the utmost seriousness and respect. It is a word that demands action and accountability.
- Register
- Formal and Academic. Used in professional, legal, and official contexts.
- Emotional Weight
- Conveys a sense of gravity, honor, and inescapable commitment.
- Common Collocations
- 責務を果たす (to fulfill a duty), 責務を負う (to bear a duty), 責務を全うする (to complete one's duty entirely).
公務員として、市民の安全を守るという重大な責務があります。(As a civil servant, I have a grave duty to protect the safety of the citizens.)
彼はリーダーとしての責務を立派に果たした。(He admirably fulfilled his duties as a leader.)
契約書には、両者の責務が詳細に記されている。(The contract details the obligations of both parties.)
教育者には、次世代を育成する大きな責務がある。(Educators have a great responsibility to nurture the next generation.)
歴史を正しく伝えることは、私たちの責務です。(It is our duty to convey history accurately.)
Using 責務 effectively requires understanding its common verb pairings and the contexts in which it appears. Because it is a noun, it often serves as the object of a sentence. The most common verb used with 責務 is 果たす (hatasu), which means 'to fulfill' or 'to carry out.' When you say 責務を果たす, you are stating that the required duties have been completed successfully. Another frequent pairing is 負う (ou), meaning 'to bear' or 'to take on.' For instance, 重い責務を負う (to bear a heavy responsibility) suggests a burden that weighs on the individual. In legal or contractual contexts, you might see 責務が生じる (sekimu ga shoujiru), meaning 'an obligation arises.' Understanding these collocations is key to sounding natural. Structurally, 責務 is often modified by an adjective or a phrase that specifies the nature of the duty. Common modifiers include 重大な (juudai na - grave/serious), 公的な (kouteki na - public), 道徳的な (doutokuteki na - moral), or 社会的な (shakaiteki na - social). For example, 社会的な責務 (social responsibility) is a common term in corporate social responsibility (CSR) discussions. When describing someone's role, you can use the pattern [Role]としての責務, such as 親としての責務 (one's duty as a parent) or 医師としての責務 (one's duty as a doctor). This highlights that the obligation stems directly from the status or profession the person holds. In formal writing, 責務 may also be used in the passive voice to describe being bound by duty, though this is less common than the active forms. It is also important to note that 責務 is almost never used for small, trivial tasks. You wouldn't use it for taking out the trash or doing homework; it is reserved for the 'big' things in life and career. When you use this word, you are signaling to your listener that the topic is of high importance and that you are treating it with gravity. It is a word of commitment and integrity.
- Verb Pairing: 果たす
- Used when a duty is successfully completed or executed.
- Verb Pairing: 負う
- Used to describe the state of carrying or being assigned a duty.
- Adjective: 重大な
- Used to emphasize the extreme importance or weight of the duty.
社長には、会社を存続させる責務がある。(The president has the duty to keep the company going.)
彼はその地位に伴う責務を重く受け止めている。(He takes the duties associated with that position very seriously.)
我々は環境を守るという責務を共有している。(We share the duty of protecting the environment.)
In daily life, 責務 is not a word you will hear in a coffee shop or a casual chat among friends. Instead, it is a staple of the professional and civic landscape of Japan. If you watch the evening news (NHK, for example), you will frequently hear politicians or government officials using 責務 when discussing policy, national security, or public welfare. They might say, '国民の生命を守ることは、政府の最大の責務です' (Protecting the lives of the citizens is the government's greatest duty). This usage reinforces the idea that the government's role is a solemn obligation to the people. In the business world, 責務 is common during formal meetings, especially those involving the board of directors or high-level management. It appears in annual reports, specifically in the 'Message from the CEO' section, where the leadership outlines their commitment to stakeholders. It is also found in employment contracts and company regulations (就業規則), defining the legal and professional expectations of an employee. In the legal realm, judges and lawyers use 責務 to discuss the obligations of parties in a dispute or the responsibilities of a guardian. Furthermore, you will hear it in academic settings, particularly in ethics or law lectures. In literature and film, 責務 is often used in historical dramas (jidaigeki) to describe the unwavering loyalty and duty of samurai to their lords. Even in modern dramas, a character might use this word to express their deep commitment to a cause or a family legacy. For a learner, hearing 責務 is a cue that the conversation has shifted to a serious, formal, or official topic. It is a word that commands attention. If you are preparing for the JLPT N2 or N1 levels, or if you plan to work in a Japanese corporate environment, mastering this word is essential for both comprehension and professional expression. It allows you to participate in and understand the high-level discourse that shapes Japanese society, governance, and business ethics.
- News & Media
- Frequent in political speeches and reports on corporate accountability.
- Corporate World
- Found in mission statements, contracts, and high-level strategy meetings.
「職務上の責務を忘れてはならない。」(You must not forget your professional duties.)
「我々には未来の子どもたちに対する責務がある。」(We have a duty toward the children of the future.)
One of the most common mistakes learners make with 責務 (sekimu) is using it in contexts that are too casual. Because it is a high-level, formal word, using it with friends or family for everyday tasks can sound unnatural or even sarcastic. For example, saying '皿洗いの責務を果たした' (I fulfilled my duty of washing the dishes) would likely be met with confusion or laughter, as it treats a minor chore like a grave state obligation. In such cases, 役割 (yakuwari - role) or simple 担当 (tantou - being in charge) is much more appropriate. Another frequent error is confusing 責務 with its close relative 責任 (sekinin). While they both deal with responsibility, 責任 is much broader. You use 責任 to talk about taking the blame for a mistake (責任を取る) or having the authority to make decisions. 責務, however, is specifically about the *ongoing duty* inherent to a role. You 'bear' a 責務, but you 'take' 責任. A third mistake involves the verb pairings. Learners sometimes try to use 責務 with verbs like する (suru) or やる (yaru). While you can 'do' a job, you 'fulfill' (果たす) a 責務. Using the wrong verb can weaken the impact of the word and make the speaker sound less proficient. Additionally, there is often confusion between 責務 and 義務 (gimu). 義務 is often an external, legal requirement (like 'compulsory education' - 義務教育), whereas 責務 often feels more internal or professional—a duty you have because of who you are or what you do, rather than just because a law says so. Finally, watch out for the pronunciation. Some learners confuse the 'seki' in 責務 with other 'seki' words like 席 (seki - seat) or 咳 (seki - cough). The pitch accent and context usually clarify this, but it's important to be mindful of the kanji meanings. To avoid these mistakes, think of 責務 as a word for 'The Big Responsibilities.' If it's something that defines your professional or moral standing, 責務 is likely the right choice. If it's just something you need to get done, stick to 責任 or 義務.
- Mistake: Over-formality
- Using 責務 for minor household chores or casual tasks.
- Mistake: Verb Mismatch
- Using 'suru' or 'yaru' instead of 'hatasu' or 'ou'.
Incorrect: 彼は掃除の責務をした。(He did the duty of cleaning.) - Too formal/incorrect verb.
Correct: 彼は掃除の担当だった。(He was in charge of cleaning.)
To truly master 責務 (sekimu), it is helpful to compare it with its synonyms and related terms. The most common alternative is 責任 (sekinin). As mentioned, 責任 is the general word for 'responsibility.' It covers everything from being responsible for a project to taking the blame for an accident. While 責務 is a *type* of responsibility (specifically a duty), 責任 is the overarching concept. Next is 義務 (gimu), which is often translated as 'obligation' or 'duty.' The key difference here is that 義務 often has a legal or compulsory force behind it. For example, 納税の義務 (the duty to pay taxes) is a legal requirement for all citizens. 責務, while it can have legal implications, often leans more toward a moral or professional calling. Another related word is 職務 (shokumu), which specifically refers to 'job duties' or 'occupational tasks.' While 責務 can be broad (like a duty to the environment), 職務 is strictly about the tasks listed in your job description. Then there is 役割 (yakuwari), which means 'role.' This is a much softer word used to describe one's part in a group or project, such as 'my role in the team.' It lacks the heavy 'burden' or 'obligation' nuance of 責務. Finally, there is 使命 (shimei), which means 'mission' or 'calling.' This is even more intense than 責務, suggesting a life's purpose or a grand task that one was born to do. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose the word that perfectly matches the weight and context of what you want to say. In a formal report, you might use 職務 to list specific tasks and 責務 to describe the overall ethical duty of the position. By navigating these synonyms, you demonstrate a deep understanding of the subtle social and professional layers of the Japanese language.
- 責務 (Sekimu) vs. 責任 (Sekinin)
- Sekimu is a formal duty/obligation of a role; Sekinin is general responsibility or accountability.
- 責務 (Sekimu) vs. 義務 (Gimu)
- Gimu is often a legal/compulsory requirement; Sekimu is a professional/moral duty.
- 責務 (Sekimu) vs. 職務 (Shokumu)
- Shokumu is specifically about occupational tasks; Sekimu is the broader responsibility of the role.
「リーダーの責務は重いが、やりがいもある。」(A leader's duty is heavy, but it is also rewarding.)
「彼は自分の使命を全うするために努力している。」(He is striving to fulfill his mission.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 責 (seki) originally depicted a person being asked to pay back a debt, which is why it carries the nuance of 'burden' or 'blame.'
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'mu' too long like 'mooooo'.
- Confusing the pitch with 'seki' (cough).
- Adding a stress accent on the first syllable like English 'SEK-imu'.
- Slurring the 'ki' and 'mu' together.
- Pronouncing 'se' as 'she'.
Difficulty Rating
The kanji are common but the word is formal and appears in complex texts.
Writing the kanji correctly requires practice, especially 'mu'.
The word is easy to pronounce but requires the correct formal context.
Easy to hear in formal news or speeches.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
〜としての (As a...)
医者としての責務を果たす。
〜を果たす (To fulfill/carry out)
約束を果たす、責務を果たす。
〜を負う (To bear/take on)
責任を負う、責務を負う。
〜べきだ (Should/Ought to)
責務を果たすべきだ。
〜に伴う (Accompanied by/Associated with)
地位に伴う責務。
Examples by Level
これは私の責務です。
This is my duty.
Simple noun + desu structure.
彼の責務は何ですか?
What is his duty?
Question form using 'nan desu ka'.
リーダーの責務は大きいです。
A leader's duty is big.
Using the possessive 'no' and adjective 'ookii'.
責務を忘れないでください。
Please do not forget your duty.
Formal request 'naide kudasai'.
それは大切な責務です。
That is an important duty.
Adjective 'taisetsu na' modifying the noun.
医者の責務は人を助けることです。
A doctor's duty is to help people.
Using 'koto desu' to define the duty.
新しい責務があります。
I have a new duty.
Using 'ga arimasu' to show possession/existence.
責務は難しいです。
Duty is difficult.
Simple topic + adjective structure.
彼は責務をしっかり果たしました。
He fulfilled his duty properly.
Using the adverb 'shikkari' and the verb 'hatasu'.
この仕事には重い責務があります。
This job has heavy duties.
Adjective 'omoi' (heavy) used metaphorically.
市民としての責務を考えましょう。
Let's think about our duties as citizens.
Using 'toshite no' (as a...) and the volitional 'mashou'.
彼女は自分の責務を知っています。
She knows her own duty.
Using the verb 'shitte imasu' (to know).
責務を果たすために努力します。
I will make an effort to fulfill my duty.
Using 'tame ni' to show purpose.
親の責務は子供を守ることです。
A parent's duty is to protect their child.
Using 'koto desu' to define a role.
私たちは責務を共有しています。
We share the duty.
Using the verb 'kyouyuu suru' (to share).
責務を負うのは大変です。
It is hard to bear a duty.
Using the verb 'ou' (to bear) and the nominalizer 'no'.
公務員には、守秘義務だけでなく、高い倫理的責務も求められる。
Civil servants are required to have not only a duty of confidentiality but also high ethical responsibilities.
Using 'dake de naku' (not only...) and the passive 'motomerareru'.
彼はリーダーとしての責務を全うすることに全力を尽くした。
He did his best to fully carry out his duties as a leader.
Using 'mattou suru' (to fulfill completely) and 'zenryoku o tsukusu'.
契約書には、サービス提供者の責務が明確に定義されている。
The service provider's obligations are clearly defined in the contract.
Using 'meikaku ni' (clearly) and the passive 'teigi sarete iru'.
私たちは環境を守るという共通の責務を負っている。
We bear a common responsibility to protect the environment.
Using 'to iu' to define the content of the duty.
政治家は国民に対して重大な責務があることを忘れてはならない。
Politicians must not forget that they have a grave duty toward the citizens.
Using 'ni taishite' (toward) and 'wasurete wa naranai' (must not forget).
彼はその職務に伴う責務の重さに驚いた。
He was surprised by the weight of the duties associated with that job.
Using 'ni tomonau' (associated with/accompanying).
自分の責務を果たすことが、信頼を得る第一歩だ。
Fulfilling your duty is the first step toward gaining trust.
Using 'koto ga' as the subject of the sentence.
社会的な責務を果たすために、企業は寄付を行っている。
In order to fulfill their social responsibilities, companies are making donations.
Using 'shakaiteki na sekimu' (social responsibility).
取締役は、株主の利益を最大化するという善管注意義務および責務を負う。
Directors bear the duty of care and the responsibility to maximize shareholder interests.
Using legal terminology like 'zenkan chuui gimu' (duty of care).
歴史を正しく次世代に伝えることは、我々大人の責務である。
It is our duty as adults to correctly pass history on to the next generation.
Using 'tsutaeru koto wa' as the topic.
彼は、個人的な感情を抑えて責務を優先させる道を選んだ。
He chose the path of suppressing his personal feelings and prioritizing his duty.
Using 'osaete' (suppressing) and 'yuusensaseru' (to prioritize).
今回の不祥事は、管理職としての責務を怠ったことが原因である。
This scandal was caused by the failure to perform duties as a manager.
Using 'okotta' (neglected/failed) and 'genin' (cause).
平和な社会を維持することは、すべての国民が共有すべき責務だ。
Maintaining a peaceful society is a duty that all citizens should share.
Using 'beki' (should/ought to).
彼は、過酷な状況下でも責務を遂行する強い意志を持っていた。
He had a strong will to carry out his duties even under harsh conditions.
Using 'suikou suru' (to execute/carry out) and 'kakoku na joukyouka' (under harsh conditions).
専門家としての責務として、彼は真実を明らかにすることを決意した。
As a professional duty, he decided to reveal the truth.
Using 'sekimu toshite' and 'ketsui shita' (decided/resolved).
責務の範囲を明確にすることで、業務の効率化を図る。
By clarifying the scope of duties, we aim to improve operational efficiency.
Using 'meikaku ni suru koto de' (by clarifying).
憲法は、国家権力の行使を制限すると同時に、国民の権利を守る責務を国家に課している。
The constitution restricts the exercise of state power and, at the same time, imposes on the state the duty to protect the rights of the citizens.
Using 'to douji ni' (at the same time) and 'kasu' (to impose).
グローバル企業の責務は、単なる利益追求を超えて、持続可能な社会の実現に寄与することにある。
The duty of global corporations lies in contributing to the realization of a sustainable society, beyond the mere pursuit of profit.
Using 'ni aru' (lies in/consists of) and 'kiyo suru' (to contribute).
彼は、自らの信念と組織の責務との間で激しい葛藤に苛まれていた。
He was tormented by a severe conflict between his own beliefs and the duties of the organization.
Using 'katou ni sainamarete ita' (tormented by conflict).
公的な責務を全うするためには、私利私欲を捨てなければならない場面もある。
To fully carry out public duties, there are situations where one must cast aside personal interests and greed.
Using 'shirishiyoku' (personal interests/greed) and 'sutenakereba naranai' (must discard).
科学者には、自らの研究が社会に及ぼす影響を予測し、警告を発する責務がある。
Scientists have a duty to predict the impact of their research on society and issue warnings.
Using 'oyobosu eikyou' (impact/influence exerted).
法的な責務を免れることは、正義の観点から許されるべきではない。
Evading legal obligations should not be permitted from the standpoint of justice.
Using 'manugareru' (to evade/escape) and 'yurusareru beki de wa nai' (should not be allowed).
その決断は、彼が背負う責務の重さを如実に物語っていた。
That decision vividly illustrated the weight of the responsibility he carried.
Using 'nyojitsu ni monogataru' (to tell/illustrate vividly).
伝統を継承する責務は、単なる保存ではなく、時代に合わせた革新を伴うべきだ。
The duty to pass on tradition should involve innovation suited to the times, not just preservation.
Using 'tomonau beki da' (should involve/accompany).
法治国家において、権力者はその権限に相応する厳格な責務を負うべきであるという理念が、民主主義の根幹を成している。
In a state governed by the rule of law, the ideal that those in power should bear strict duties commensurate with their authority forms the foundation of democracy.
Using 'sousou suru' (commensurate with) and 'konkan o nasu' (form the foundation).
未曾有の危機に際し、指導者に求められるのは、私情を排して責務を断行する不退転の決意である。
In the face of an unprecedented crisis, what is required of a leader is an unwavering determination to carry out their duties, setting aside personal feelings.
Using 'mizou no kiki' (unprecedented crisis) and 'shijou o haishite' (excluding personal feelings).
彼は、一族の長としての責務を果たすべく、己の幸福を犠牲にすることを厭わなかった。
To fulfill his duty as the head of the clan, he did not hesitate to sacrifice his own happiness.
Using 'beku' (in order to - formal) and 'itowanakatta' (did not mind/hesitate).
企業の社会的責務(CSR)は、現代の資本主義社会における倫理的要請として、その重要性を増している。
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), as an ethical requirement in modern capitalist society, is increasing in importance.
Using 'rinriteki yousei' (ethical requirement).
その文学作品は、個人の自由と、逃れられない責務との間の永劫の葛藤をテーマとしている。
The literary work takes as its theme the eternal conflict between individual freedom and inescapable duty.
Using 'eigou no kattou' (eternal conflict).
条約の批准により、加盟国には国際法上の責務を誠実に履行することが義務付けられた。
By ratifying the treaty, member states were obligated to faithfully fulfill their duties under international law.
Using 'seijitsu ni rikou suru' (faithfully fulfill/implement).
彼は、自らの過ちに対する責務を痛感し、公職を辞することを決めた。
Deeply feeling the weight of responsibility for his mistakes, he decided to resign from public office.
Using 'tuukan shi' (deeply feeling/keenly realizing).
先人たちが築き上げた平和を維持する責務は、我々現代人の双肩にかかっている。
The duty to maintain the peace built by our predecessors rests on the shoulders of us modern people.
Using 'souken ni kakatte iru' (rests on the shoulders).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— The duty one has because they are in a leadership position.
リーダーとしての責務を重く感じている。
— The fundamental moral and legal duties of a parent to their child.
子供を育てるのは親としての責務だ。
— Responsibilities that are directly tied to one's job description.
職務上の責務を忘れてはいけない。
— The act of carrying out or executing one's duties.
責務の遂行に全力を注ぐ。
— To take on or be in charge of a very important duty.
彼は次世代の育成という重大な責務を担っている。
— To release someone from their specific duties or obligations.
特別な理由により、責務を免除された。
— The scope or limits of what one is responsible for.
どこまでが自分の責務の範囲か確認する。
— A duty that arises from historical context or past events.
我々にはこの文化を守る歴史的責務がある。
— To feel the weight of one's responsibility very deeply or painfully.
失敗の後、彼は自分の責務を痛感した。
— To involve or bring about legal obligations.
この合意は重大な法的責務を伴う。
Often Confused With
Gimu is often a legal/compulsory duty (like taxes); Sekimu is a professional/moral duty of a role.
Sekinin is general responsibility/accountability; Sekimu is the specific duty inherent to a role.
Shokumu is specifically about 'job tasks'; Sekimu is the broader responsibility of the position.
Idioms & Expressions
— To bear the weight of responsibility on one's own two shoulders; to be solely responsible.
彼は国の未来という重い責務を双肩に担っている。
Literary/Formal— To abandon or throw away one's duties mid-way.
どんなに辛くても、責務を投げ出すことはできない。
Neutral— To be crushed or overwhelmed by the weight of one's duties.
彼は重すぎる責務に押しつぶされそうになっていた。
Neutral— To use one's duty as an excuse or a shield to justify actions.
彼は責務を盾にして、無理な要求を通そうとした。
Critical— To be faithful and dedicated to one's duties.
彼女は常に自分の責務に忠実だった。
Formal— To deeply feel the reality and weight of one's duty in one's very being.
リーダーになって初めて、責務の重さが身に染みた。
Neutral— To carry a duty on one's back; to take on a burden.
若くして大きな責務を背負うことになった。
Neutral— To die while fully carrying out one's duties (often used in heroic contexts).
彼は軍人としての責務を全うして戦死した。
Formal/Literary— The heavy pressure that comes from having important duties.
責務の重圧に耐えかねて、彼は辞職した。
Neutral— To live one's life dedicated to a specific duty or mission.
彼は教育者としての責務に生きる男だ。
InspirationalEasily Confused
Both mean responsibility/duty.
Sekinin is general and used for blame/authority. Sekimu is formal and refers to the ongoing duty of a role.
責任を取る (take blame) vs 責務を果たす (fulfill duty).
Both mean obligation.
Gimu is often external/legal (taxes, education). Sekimu is often internal/professional/moral (a doctor's duty).
義務教育 (compulsory education) vs 社会的責務 (social responsibility).
Both mean duty/task.
Ninmu is a specific mission or assignment. Sekimu is the overarching responsibility of a position.
秘密の任務 (secret mission) vs リーダーの責務 (leader's duty).
Both mean role/duty.
Yakuwari is softer and refers to the part one plays in a group. Sekimu is heavy and formal.
司会の役割 (role of the MC) vs 親としての責務 (duty as a parent).
Both mean duty.
Honbun refers to what is appropriate or proper for someone in their social status.
学生の本分 (the proper duty of a student).
Sentence Patterns
[Role]としての責務がある。
教師としての責務がある。
責務を果たすために[Action]。
責務を果たすために毎日勉強する。
重大な責務を負っている。
彼は重大な責務を負っている。
[Abstract Noun]に対する責務。
平和に対する責務。
責務を全うすることが求められる。
リーダーには責務を全うすることが求められる。
責務を怠ることは許されない。
責務を怠ることは許されない。
責務を双肩に担う。
彼は国の責務を双肩に担う。
責務の履行を誠実に行う。
責務の履行を誠実に行う。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common in news, business, and formal writing; rare in casual speech.
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Using 'sekimu suru'.
→
責務を果たす (sekimu o hatasu).
責務 is a noun and cannot be used as a suru-verb directly. You must use it with an action verb.
-
Using 責務 for washing dishes.
→
皿洗いの担当 (sara-arai no tantou).
責務 is too formal for household chores. Use 担当 (being in charge) or 役割 (role) instead.
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Confusing 責務 with 責任 (sekinin) when talking about blame.
→
責任を取る (sekinin o toru).
To 'take responsibility' (take the blame) for a mistake, always use 責任. 責務 is for the duty itself.
-
Using 義務 (gimu) for professional duties.
→
責務 (sekimu).
While both mean duty, 義務 often implies a legal requirement. 責務 is better for professional or moral missions.
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Mispronouncing the pitch accent.
→
Low-High-High [se-KI-MU].
An incorrect pitch can make it sound like 'seki' (cough) or 'seki' (seat). Practice the flat/rising Tokyo accent.
Tips
Use with 'Role' + toshite no
The most natural way to use 責務 is to specify the role first, like 'Isha toshite no sekimu' (Duty as a doctor). This clarifies exactly where the obligation comes from.
Weight of the Word
Remember that 責務 is a 'heavy' word. It implies that if you fail, there are moral or professional consequences. Don't use it for things that don't matter.
Pair with 'Hatasu'
Memorize the phrase 'Sekimu o hatasu' as a single unit. It's the most common way to say 'fulfill your duty' in professional Japanese.
Kanji Recognition
The kanji 務 (mu) is also found in 事務所 (jimusho - office) and 義務 (gimu). Linking these words helps you remember the 'work/duty' meaning of the kanji.
Formal Contexts
If you are giving a speech or a presentation, using 責務 will make you sound very professional and dedicated to your topic.
News Keywords
Listen for 'sekimu' during political scandals. It's often used when people discuss whether a politician has fulfilled their duties to the public.
Noun Status
Always treat 責務 as a noun. It needs particles like 'o' or 'ga' and verbs like 'hatasu' or 'aru' to function in a sentence.
Corporate Values
In Japanese companies, 'sekimu' is part of the 'corporate spirit.' Mentioning your 責務 shows you are a reliable and serious employee.
Contract Language
If you see 責務 in a contract, read it carefully. It defines your legal obligations and what you are required to do under the agreement.
The 'On' Connection
The sense of 'sekimu' is often linked to 'on' (indebtedness). You fulfill your 責務 to repay the support you've received from others.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'SEKI' as 'Security' and 'MU' as 'Mission'. Your 'Security Mission' is your SEKIMU (Duty).
Visual Association
Imagine a samurai carrying a heavy stone (responsibility) on his back, labeled with his job title.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'sekimu' in a sentence describing your current job or your role in your family. Make sure it sounds formal!
Word Origin
Composed of two kanji of Chinese origin (Sino-Japanese).
Original meaning: 责 (to demand/reproach) + 务 (to apply oneself/task).
Japonic (Sino-Japanese vocabulary).Cultural Context
Be careful not to use this word lightly; it implies a serious commitment. Using it for trivial things might seem like you are mocking the importance of the word.
In English, 'duty' can sometimes feel old-fashioned or military, but in Japan, 'sekimu' is a standard part of professional and civic life.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Business/Work
- 職務上の責務
- 責務を果たす
- 責務を負う
- 責務の範囲
Legal/Contracts
- 法的責務
- 責務が生じる
- 責務を履行する
- 責務の免除
Politics/Government
- 国民に対する責務
- 重大な責務
- 公的な責務
- 責務を痛感する
Ethics/Society
- 社会的責務
- 道徳的責務
- 次世代への責務
- 責務を自覚する
Family/Roles
- 親としての責務
- リーダーとしての責務
- 一族の責務
- 責務を全うする
Conversation Starters
"リーダーとしての責務についてどう考えますか? (What do you think about the duties of a leader?)"
"企業の社会的責務はどこまでだと思いますか? (How far do you think a company's social responsibility goes?)"
"最近、自分の責務を痛感したことはありますか? (Have you recently felt the weight of your duties deeply?)"
"親としての最大の責務は何だと思いますか? (What do you think is the greatest duty of a parent?)"
"責務を果たすために、一番大切なことは何ですか? (What is the most important thing for fulfilling one's duties?)"
Journal Prompts
今日の仕事で、自分の責務をどのように果たしましたか? (How did you fulfill your duties in your work today?)
あなたが将来、負いたいと思っている責務は何ですか? (What kind of duties do you want to take on in the future?)
責務と自由のバランスについて、あなたの考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on the balance between duty and freedom.)
尊敬する人が、どのように自分の責務を果たしているか描写してください。 (Describe how someone you respect fulfills their duties.)
もし責務が全くなかったら、あなたの生活はどう変わりますか? (If you had no duties at all, how would your life change?)
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it's too formal. Use 役割 (yakuwari) or 担当 (tantou) for small tasks like cleaning or cooking.
責任 (sekinin) is general responsibility (including blame). 責務 (sekimu) is the formal duty of a specific role.
果たす (hatasu - to fulfill) and 負う (ou - to bear) are the most common and natural verbs.
Yes, it is common in N2 and N1 level reading and vocabulary sections.
No, it is a noun. You cannot say 'sekimu suru'. You must say 'sekimu o hatasu' or similar.
Use 義務 (gimu) for legal requirements (taxes, laws) or compulsory actions.
It means 'Social Responsibility,' often used to describe the ethical duties of a company toward society.
Yes, it's very appropriate for formal professional communication about roles and commitments.
No, it's mostly heard on the news, in speeches, or in formal business settings.
Yes, it carries a nuance of gravity and serious commitment.
Test Yourself 190 questions
Write a sentence using '責務を果たす' about a doctor.
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Translate: 'It is our duty to protect the environment.'
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Write a formal sentence describing a leader's duty.
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Explain the difference between 責務 and 責任 in Japanese (simple).
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Write a sentence using '責務を負う'.
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Translate: 'He fulfilled his duties as a parent.'
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Write a sentence using '社会的責務'.
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Translate: 'A grave responsibility.'
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Write a sentence using '責務を全うする'.
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Translate: 'The scope of duty.'
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Write a sentence using '道徳的責務'.
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Translate: 'To neglect one's duty.'
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Write a sentence using '法的責務'.
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Translate: 'As a professional...'
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Write a sentence about a politician's duty.
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Translate: 'To be aware of one's duty.'
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Write a sentence using '共通の責務'.
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Translate: 'The weight of responsibility.'
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Write a sentence about historical responsibility.
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Translate: 'To fulfill a professional duty.'
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Describe your duties at work or school using the word '責務'.
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What do you think is a parent's most important '責務'?
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Discuss the '社会的責務' of big companies.
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How do you feel when you have a heavy '責務'?
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Roleplay: You are a leader reminding a team member of their '責務'.
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Explain why '責務' is a formal word.
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What is the '責務' of a doctor?
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What is your '責務' as a citizen?
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Describe a time you fulfilled a difficult '責務'.
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Is '責務' more important than freedom?
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How is '責務' different from 'shigoto'?
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What are the '責務' of a teacher?
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Do you like having '責務'? Why or why not?
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What '責務' do humans have to the planet?
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If you are a leader, how do you handle your '責務'?
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Why is '責務を果たす' a common phrase?
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What is the '責務' of a scientist?
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Can you use '責務' for a pet?
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Talk about '責務' in Japanese history.
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How do you say 'It's my duty' formally?
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Transcript: '公務員として、国民の安全を守る責務があります。' What is the speaker's role?
Transcript: '彼は責務を果たさずに逃げ出した。' Did he do his duty?
Transcript: '重大な責務を負うことになりました。' Is the duty light or heavy?
Transcript: '社会的責務を果たすのが企業の役割です。' What should companies fulfill?
Transcript: 'リーダーの責務は重い。' How is the duty described?
Transcript: '責務を全うした彼を誇りに思う。' How does the speaker feel?
Transcript: '職務上の責務を怠ったため、罰せられた。' Why was he punished?
Transcript: 'これは私たちの共通の責務です。' Who does the duty belong to?
Transcript: '責務の範囲を確認しましょう。' What does the speaker want to check?
Transcript: '親としての責務を忘れないで。' Who is being addressed?
Transcript: '彼は責務を双肩に担っている。' How many people are sharing the duty?
Transcript: '法的な責務が生じます。' What kind of duty arises?
Transcript: '責務を痛感しています。' Is the speaker feeling it lightly or deeply?
Transcript: '彼は歴史的責務を果たした。' What kind of duty did he fulfill?
Transcript: '責務を自覚することが第一歩だ。' What is the first step?
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Summary
責務 (sekimu) is your 'noble duty.' Use it when talking about the serious responsibilities of a profession or a major life role, like a leader's duty to their team. Example: リーダーとしての責務を果たす (To fulfill one's duty as a leader).
- A formal word for 'duty' or 'obligation' tied to a role.
- Used in professional, legal, and moral contexts.
- Heavier and more serious than the common word 'sekinin'.
- Commonly paired with 'hatasu' (fulfill) and 'ou' (bear).
Use with 'Role' + toshite no
The most natural way to use 責務 is to specify the role first, like 'Isha toshite no sekimu' (Duty as a doctor). This clarifies exactly where the obligation comes from.
Weight of the Word
Remember that 責務 is a 'heavy' word. It implies that if you fail, there are moral or professional consequences. Don't use it for things that don't matter.
Pair with 'Hatasu'
Memorize the phrase 'Sekimu o hatasu' as a single unit. It's the most common way to say 'fulfill your duty' in professional Japanese.
Kanji Recognition
The kanji 務 (mu) is also found in 事務所 (jimusho - office) and 義務 (gimu). Linking these words helps you remember the 'work/duty' meaning of the kanji.
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More work words
調整
A1The act of making small changes to something to achieve a desired fit, function, or balance. In a work context, it specifically refers to coordinating schedules or aligning different opinions to reach an agreement.
有利な
B1Advantageous or favorable.
承知する
B1To acknowledge, agree; to be aware of and consent to something.
年収
B1Annual income; yearly salary.
応募
B1To apply for a position, a competition, a prize, or a public offer. It indicates a proactive step to participate in something.
応募する
B1To apply for a job or position.
~と同時に
B1At the same time as, simultaneously with.
勤怠
B1Attendance record; presence or absence from work.
係員
A2Person in charge; attendant.
ぎんこういん
A2Bank employee.