失業 in 30 Seconds
- Unemployment: not having a job and looking for one.
- Used for economic news and personal situations.
- Often paired with verbs like 'suru' (to do).
- Distinguished from retirement or not working by choice.
The Japanese word 失業 (しつぎょう - shitsugyou) directly translates to 'unemployment' or 'the state of being unemployed'. It refers to the situation where a person does not have a job but is actively seeking one. This term is commonly used in discussions about the economy, social welfare, and personal circumstances.
- Core Meaning
- The lack of employment, often implying a desire to work.
- Contexts of Use
- It appears in news reports about job market trends, government policies aimed at reducing unemployment rates, and personal stories of individuals facing job loss.
- Nuance
- While it can simply mean not having a job, it often carries the implication of actively searching for work, distinguishing it from being retired or choosing not to work.
経済の悪化により、失業率が上昇しています。 (Keizai no akka ni yori, shitsugyouritsu ga joushou shite imasu.)
Understanding 失業 is crucial for comprehending discussions about societal well-being and economic stability in Japan. It's a term that touches upon individual hardship and broader societal challenges.
多くの若者が失業に悩んでいます。 (Ooku no wakamono ga shitsugyou ni nayande imasu.)
- Related Concepts
- It's closely related to terms like 雇用 (koyou - employment), 経済 (keizai - economy), and 求職 (kyuushoku - job hunting).
The word 失業 is a significant term in Japanese society, reflecting economic conditions and the well-being of its citizens. It's important to understand its implications beyond a simple definition.
Using 失業 (しつぎょう - shitsugyou) correctly in sentences allows for nuanced communication about employment situations. It's often used with verbs that indicate experiencing, causing, or dealing with unemployment.
- With Verbs
- Common verbs paired with 失業 include する (suru - to do/to be), する (suru - to experience), を経験する (keiken suru - to experience), を招く (maneku - to invite/cause), and にあえぐ (aniegu - to suffer from).
- Expressing Personal Situations
- You might say 失業しました (shitsugyou shimashita) to state that you became unemployed. 失業中です (shitsugyou chuu desu) means 'currently unemployed'.
- Discussing Economic Trends
- In economic contexts, you'll see phrases like 失業率 (shitsugyouritsu - unemployment rate) and 失業問題 (shitsugyou mondai - unemployment problem).
彼は長年勤めた会社を失業してしまいました。 (Kare wa naganen tsutometa kaisha o shitsugyou shite shimaimashita.)
When discussing the impact of economic policies, 失業 can be used to describe the negative consequences for individuals and society. For example, 失業は社会不安を招きます (shitsugyou wa shakai fuan o manekimasu - Unemployment causes social unrest).
失業保険の申請方法について教えてください。 (Shitsugyou hoken no shinsei houhou ni tsuite oshiete kudasai.)
In personal narratives, 失業 can be a central theme, describing the challenges of finding new employment and the emotional toll it takes.
You'll encounter the word 失業 (しつぎょう - shitsugyou) in various real-world scenarios, primarily related to economics, social issues, and personal career discussions.
- News and Media
- News anchors and articles frequently use 失業 when reporting on national or global economic conditions, job market statistics, and the impact of recessions or industry shifts. You'll often hear about 失業率 (shitsugyouritsu - unemployment rate).
- Government and Policy Discussions
- Government officials, economists, and policy makers use 失業 when discussing employment strategies, social welfare programs, and measures to combat economic downturns. Terms like 失業対策 (shitsugyou taisaku - unemployment countermeasures) are common.
- Job Centers and Career Services
- In places that help people find jobs, such as public employment services (ハローワーク - Haroowakku), 失業 is a central term. You might hear about 失業手当 (shitsugyou teate - unemployment benefits) or 失業者のための職業訓練 (shitsugyousha no tame no shokugyou kunren - vocational training for the unemployed).
- Personal Conversations
- In personal conversations, people might share their experiences of 失業, discuss friends or family members who are unemployed, or express concerns about job security. For example, 最近、失業した友人がいるんだ (Saikin, shitsugyou shita yuujin ga irunda - I have a friend who recently became unemployed).
政府は失業問題の解決に力を入れています。 (Seifu wa shitsugyou mondai no kaiketsu ni chikara o irete imasu.)
You might also hear it in academic settings, such as university lectures on economics or sociology, where 失業 is analyzed as a social phenomenon.
失業手当の制度について詳しく知りたいです。 (Shitsugyou teate no seido ni tsuite kuwashiku shiritai desu.)
When learning 失業 (しつぎょう - shitsugyou), learners might make a few common mistakes that can lead to misunderstanding or awkward phrasing.
- Confusing with 'Not Working' in General
- Mistake: Using 失業 to describe someone who is retired, a stay-at-home parent, or a student.
Correction: 失業 specifically refers to lacking a job while actively seeking one. For other situations, use terms like 退職 (taishoku - retirement), 主婦/主夫 (shufu/shufu - housewife/househusband), or 学生 (gakusei - student). - Incorrect Verb Usage
- Mistake: Trying to use 失業 as a standalone adjective or trying to conjugate it like a typical verb without する (suru).
Correction: 失業 is a noun. It is most commonly used with the verb する (suru), as in 失業する (shitsugyou suru - to become unemployed) or 失業している (shitsugyou shite iru - to be unemployed). - Overusing it for Minor Job Changes
- Mistake: Referring to a short gap between jobs, like a week or two, as 失業 when it's a planned transition.
Correction: While technically a period without a job, it's usually understood that 失業 implies a more significant or concerning period of joblessness. For short, planned breaks, other phrasing might be more appropriate. - Misunderstanding 'Unemployment Rate'
- Mistake: Confusing the concept of 失業率 (shitsugyouritsu - unemployment rate) with the total number of unemployed people.
Correction: The 失業率 is a percentage of the labor force that is unemployed. It's a statistical measure, not a direct count.
間違った使い方：私は退職して失業中です。 (Machigatta tsukaikata: Watashi wa taishoku shite shitsugyou chuu desu.)
正しい使い方：新しい仕事を見つけるまで、失業しています。 (Tadashii tsukaikata: Atarashii shigoto o mitsukeru made, shitsugyou shite imasu.)
While 失業 (しつぎょう - shitsugyou) is the standard term for unemployment, several other words and phrases can be used depending on the nuance and context.
- 無職 (むしょく - mushoku)
- Meaning: Literally 'no job' or 'unoccupied'.
Comparison: 無職 is a broader term than 失業. It can include people who are retired, students, stay-at-home parents, or those who are actively seeking work. 失業 specifically implies a desire to work and an active search.
Example: 彼は現在無職です (Kare wa genzai mushoku desu) - He is currently jobless (could be retired, looking for work, etc.). 彼は失業中です (Kare wa shitsugyou chuu desu) - He is currently unemployed (implying he is looking for work). - 職がない (しょくがない - shoku ga nai)
- Meaning: 'To not have a job'.
Comparison: This is a more casual and direct way of saying someone is unemployed. It's less formal than 失業 and can be used in everyday conversation. It carries a similar implication of seeking employment as 失業.
Example: 仕事が見つからなくて、職がないんだ (Shigoto ga mitsukerarenakute, shoku ga nain da) - I can't find a job, so I'm jobless. - 求職中 (きゅうしょくちゅう - kyuushokuchuu)
- Meaning: 'Job hunting' or 'seeking employment'.
Comparison: This phrase describes the action of looking for a job, which is a key component of being 失業. Someone who is 失業 is usually 求職中.
Example: 現在、求職中です (Genzai, kyuushokuchuu desu) - I am currently job hunting. - 解雇 (かいこ - kaiko)
- Meaning: 'Dismissal' or 'layoff'.
Comparison: 解雇 refers to the act of being fired or laid off by an employer. It is a cause of 失業.
Example: 会社都合で解雇された (Kaisha tsugou de kaiko sareta) - I was laid off due to company reasons.
失業 vs 無職: 失業は職を探している状態、無職は単に職がない状態。 (Shitsugyou vs Mushoku: Shitsugyou wa shoku o sagashite iru joutai, mushoku wa tan ni shoku ga nai joutai.)
Understanding these distinctions allows for more precise communication about employment status and related situations.
彼は解雇されてから、失業保険を申請しました。 (Kare wa kaiko sarete kara, shitsugyou hoken o shinsei shimashita.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character '業' (gyou) itself has a deep meaning, often related to karma or one's life's work in Buddhist contexts, adding a layer of gravitas to the concept of losing one's occupation. The combination emphasizes the significant loss experienced when one becomes unemployed.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'tsu-u'. It should be a single, short sound.
- Not clearly articulating the 'gyo' sound, making it sound like 'shitsugyu'.
- Adding an unnecessary vowel sound after 'gyo'.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B1 level words are generally understandable in context. Recognizing '失業' in news articles or simple explanations is feasible. However, understanding complex economic analyses or nuanced discussions might require higher proficiency.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using する (suru) with nouns to form verbs.
失業 (noun) + する (suru) = 失業する (shitsugyou suru - to become unemployed).
Using ～中 (chuu) to indicate a state or ongoing action.
失業 (noun) + 中 (chuu) = 失業中 (shitsugyou chuu - currently unemployed).
Using passive voice (られる/れる) to describe being affected by an action.
解雇される (kaiko sareru - to be laid off/fired), which can lead to 失業.
Causative-passive forms to describe causing unemployment.
経済悪化が失業を招く (keiki akka ga shitsugyou o maneku - economic deterioration causes unemployment).
Conditional forms (たら, ば) to discuss consequences of unemployment.
もし失業したら、失業保険を申請します。(Moshi shitsugyou shitara, shitsugyou hoken o shinsei shimasu.) If I become unemployed, I will apply for unemployment benefits.
Examples by Level
仕事がなくなりました。
I lost my job.
Simple past tense of 'to lose'.
彼は今、仕事を探しています。
He is looking for a job now.
Present continuous tense.
失業するのはつらいです。
Being unemployed is painful.
Gerund form of 'to become unemployed' used as a subject.
失業手当はいくらですか？
How much is the unemployment benefit?
Question asking for an amount.
失業率が上がっています。
The unemployment rate is increasing.
Present continuous tense used for trends.
失業者はたくさんいます。
There are many unemployed people.
Plural noun used with a quantifier.
職を失いました。
I lost my job.
Similar to '仕事がなくなりました', but uses the noun '職'.
失業保険をもらえますか？
Can I receive unemployment insurance?
Asking for permission/possibility.
経済の低迷により、失業者が増加している。
Due to the economic slump, the number of unemployed people is increasing.
Using cause and effect structure.
彼は失業したことを誰にも言えなかった。
He couldn't tell anyone that he had become unemployed.
Past tense and negative potential form.
失業期間中にスキルアップを目指しています。
I am aiming to improve my skills during my unemployment period.
Using '期間中' (during the period).
失業保険の受給資格について確認したい。
I want to confirm my eligibility for unemployment benefits.
Expressing a desire to confirm information.
若者の失業問題は深刻化している。
The unemployment problem among young people is becoming serious.
Using '深刻化する' (to become serious).
失業を経験したことで、人生観が変わった。
My outlook on life changed because I experienced unemployment.
Using '～したことで' (because of doing ~).
失業率の変動が経済に与える影響は大きい。
The impact of fluctuations in the unemployment rate on the economy is large.
Using '変動' (fluctuation) and '与える影響' (impact).
長引く失業は精神的な負担となる。
Prolonged unemployment becomes a mental burden.
Using '長引く' (to be prolonged) and '負担' (burden).
構造的な失業の背景には、産業構造の変化が指摘されている。
Changes in industrial structure are pointed out as a background to structural unemployment.
Using technical terms like '構造的な失業' (structural unemployment) and '産業構造' (industrial structure).
失業保険の給付期間延長が議論されている。
The extension of the unemployment benefit payment period is being discussed.
Passive voice and noun phrases.
彼は失業という逆境を乗り越え、新たなビジネスを立ち上げた。
He overcame the adversity of unemployment and launched a new business.
Using '逆境を乗り越える' (to overcome adversity).
失業による経済的困窮から立ち直るための支援策が求められている。
Support measures are needed to recover from economic hardship due to unemployment.
Complex noun phrases and passive voice.
失業率の低下は、景気回復の兆候と見なされることが多い。
A decrease in the unemployment rate is often seen as a sign of economic recovery.
Using '～と見なされる' (to be regarded as).
意図的な失業は、より良い職への転職を目的としている場合がある。
Intentional unemployment may be aimed at転職 (changing jobs) to a better position.
Using '意図的な' (intentional) and '転職' (job change).
失業者の社会復帰を支援するためのプログラムが実施されている。
Programs are being implemented to support the social reintegration of the unemployed.
Using '社会復帰' (social reintegration) and passive voice.
失業期間中の所得補償は、生活の安定に不可欠である。
Income compensation during the unemployment period is essential for life stability.
Using '所得補償' (income compensation) and '不可欠' (essential).
グローバル化の進展に伴い、国内の失業構造にも変化が生じている。
With the progress of globalization, changes are also occurring in the domestic unemployment structure.
Advanced vocabulary like 'グローバル化' (globalization) and '失業構造' (unemployment structure).
予期せぬ失業は、個人のキャリア形成に深刻な影響を及ぼしうる。
Unexpected unemployment can have a serious impact on an individual's career development.
Using '予期せぬ' (unexpected), 'キャリア形成' (career development), and '影響を及ぼしうる' (can have an impact).
失業保険制度の持続可能性について、専門家の間で意見が分かれている。
Opinions are divided among experts regarding the sustainability of the unemployment insurance system.
Using '持続可能性' (sustainability) and nuanced phrasing.
長期失業者は、社会からの孤立感を深めやすい傾向にある。
Long-term unemployed individuals tend to deepen their sense of isolation from society.
Using '長期失業者' (long-term unemployed) and '孤立感' (sense of isolation).
失業率の低迷が続けば、消費の低迷を招き、さらなる経済悪化につながる恐れがある。
If the low unemployment rate continues, it risks leading to sluggish consumption and further economic deterioration.
Complex conditional sentences and cause-and-effect chains.
失業という社会現象の分析には、多角的な視点からのアプローチが不可欠である。
A multi-faceted approach is essential for the analysis of the social phenomenon of unemployment.
Using '社会現象' (social phenomenon) and '多角的な視点' (multi-faceted perspective).
失業者の再就職支援において、個々の状況に合わせたオーダーメイドのプログラムが効果的である。
In re-employment support for the unemployed, tailor-made programs adapted to individual circumstances are effective.
Using '再就職支援' (re-employment support) and 'オーダーメイド' (custom-made).
失業問題は、単に経済的な問題に留まらず、人々の精神的健康にも大きな影響を与える。
The unemployment problem is not merely an economic issue, but also greatly affects people's mental health.
Using '～に留まらず' (not limited to) and emphasizing broader impacts.
技術革新の加速は、既存の雇用構造を揺るがし、新たな形態の失業を生み出す可能性を孕んでいる。
The acceleration of technological innovation shakes existing employment structures and harbors the potential to create new forms of unemployment.
Highly sophisticated vocabulary, abstract concepts, and nuanced implications.
失業保険制度の改革は、労働市場の流動性を高め、経済全体の効率性を向上させるという観点から議論されている。
Reforms to the unemployment insurance system are being discussed from the perspective of increasing labor market fluidity and improving the efficiency of the entire economy.
Abstract economic theory and formal argumentation.
パンデミックによる予期せぬ大規模失業は、社会保障システムの脆弱性を露呈させ、その再構築の必要性を浮き彫りにした。
The unexpected large-scale unemployment caused by the pandemic exposed the vulnerability of the social security system and highlighted the need for its reconstruction.
Complex sentence structure, sophisticated vocabulary, and cause-and-effect analysis of societal systems.
失業という社会病理現象の根源を探るには、経済学のみならず、社会学、心理学、さらには人類学的な洞察も不可欠となる。
To explore the roots of unemployment as a social pathology, not only economics but also sociological, psychological, and even anthropological insights become indispensable.
Interdisciplinary approach and abstract analysis of societal issues.
構造的失業の長期化は、個人の尊厳を損ない、社会全体の活力低下を招くという負のスパイラルに陥る危険性をはらんでいる。
The prolongation of structural unemployment carries the risk of falling into a negative spiral that undermines individual dignity and leads to a decline in the vitality of society as a whole.
Figurative language, complex causal chains, and nuanced expression of risk.
失業保険の給付額や期間の適正化は、労働意欲の減退を招かず、かつ生活困窮者を確実に支援するという、両義的な課題を内包している。
The optimization of unemployment benefit amounts and durations encompasses the dual challenge of not discouraging work motivation while reliably supporting those in financial hardship.
Sophisticated vocabulary and the expression of complex policy dilemmas.
AIの進化による自動化の波は、既存の職種における失業リスクを高めると同時に、新たな専門職の創出という機会をもたらすという二律背反の様相を呈している。
The wave of automation due to AI evolution presents a paradoxical situation where it increases the risk of unemployment in existing job categories, while simultaneously creating opportunities for new specialized professions.
Complex hypothetical scenarios and the expression of paradoxes.
失業という個人的な苦境を、社会全体の構造的な課題として捉え直し、包括的なセーフティネットの構築を目指すことが喫緊の課題である。
It is an urgent task to reframe personal hardship like unemployment as a structural issue for society as a whole and aim to build a comprehensive safety net.
Urgent calls to action and complex societal planning.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— I became unemployed.
残念ながら、会社が倒産して失業しました。(Zannen nagara, kaisha ga tousan shite shitsugyou shimashita.) Unfortunately, the company went bankrupt, and I became unemployed.
— I am currently unemployed.
今は失業中ですが、一生懸命仕事を探しています。(Ima wa shitsugyou chuu desu ga, isshoukenmei shigoto o sagashite imasu.) I am currently unemployed, but I am diligently looking for work.
— The unemployment rate is low.
この国では失業率が低いので、経済は安定している。(Kono kuni de wa shitsugyouritsu ga hikui node, keizai wa antei shite iru.) In this country, the unemployment rate is low, so the economy is stable.
— The unemployment rate is high.
不景気で失業率が高くなっている。(Fukeiki de shitsugyouritsu ga takaku natte iru.) The unemployment rate is becoming high due to the recession.
— To receive unemployment insurance/benefits.
失業保険をもらいながら、次の仕事を探しています。(Shitsugyou hoken o morai nagara, tsugi no shigoto o sagashite imasu.) While receiving unemployment benefits, I am looking for my next job.
— To recover from unemployment.
困難を乗り越え、失業から立ち直ることができた。(Konnan o norikoe, shitsugyou kara tachinaoru koto ga dekita.) I overcame difficulties and was able to recover from unemployment.
— Crisis of unemployment.
多くの人が失業の危機に瀕している。(Ooku no hito ga shitsugyou no kiki ni hin shite iru.) Many people are facing a crisis of unemployment.
— To experience unemployment.
失業を経験したことで、人生について深く考えさせられた。(Shitsugyou o keiken shita koto de, jinsei ni tsuite fukaku kangaesaserareta.) Experiencing unemployment made me think deeply about life.
— Increase in the number of unemployed people.
失業者の増加は社会不安につながる。(Shitsugyousha no zouka wa shakai fuan ni tsunagaru.) An increase in the number of unemployed people leads to social unrest.
— Unemployment allowance/benefit.
失業給付の申請手続きは複雑だ。(Shitsugyou kyuufu no shinsei tetsuzuki wa fukuzatsu da.) The application procedure for unemployment allowance is complicated.
Often Confused With
'Mushoku' means jobless and is a broader term. It can include retired people, students, or those not actively seeking work. 'Shitsugyou' specifically implies being unemployed and actively looking for a job.
'Taishoku' means retirement or resignation. While it results in not having a job, it's a voluntary or planned cessation of work, unlike 'shitsugyou' which often implies involuntary job loss.
'Kyuushoku' means leave of absence from work, usually temporary and for reasons like illness or personal matters. The person is still technically employed.
Idioms & Expressions
— To lose one's job. This is a common and direct idiom for becoming unemployed.
長年勤めた会社を、突然職を失いました。(Nagane tsutometa kaisha o, totsuzen shoku o ushinaimashita.) I suddenly lost my job at the company I had worked for many years.
Neutral— To be left destitute, to be on the streets. This idiom describes a severe state of joblessness and poverty, implying complete lack of support.
もし仕事が見つからなければ、路頭に迷うことになるだろう。(Moshi shigoto ga mitsukerarenakereba, rotou ni mayou koto ni naru darou.) If I can't find a job, I'll likely end up on the streets.
Formal/Strong— To lose one's livelihood or the means to earn a living. It emphasizes the loss of the ability to support oneself financially.
この仕事がなくなると、食い扶持を失ってしまう。(Kono shigoto ga nakunaru to, kui-butchi o ushina tte shimau.) If this job disappears, I will lose my livelihood.
Neutral/Slightly informal— To be ashamed or embarrassed in front of others, often due to one's unemployed status or financial difficulties. It highlights the social stigma associated with joblessness.
失業してしばらくは、世間をはばかって外に出られなかった。(Shitsugyou shite shibaraku wa, seken o habakatte soto ni derarenakatta.) For a while after becoming unemployed, I was too ashamed to go out.
Neutral/Slightly formal— To barely make ends meet, to get by with difficulty. This idiom describes the struggle to survive financially, often when one is unemployed or in a precarious financial situation.
失業中は、アルバイトで糊口をしのいでいた。(Shitsugyou chuu wa, arubaito de kokou o shinOide ita.) During my unemployment, I was just making ends meet with part-time jobs.
Neutral/Slightly formal— To earn a living, to make a livelihood. This is the opposite of losing one's livelihood and is the goal of someone who is unemployed.
早く仕事を見つけて、きちんと生計を立てたい。(Hayaku shigoto o mitsukete, kichinto seikei o tateritai.) I want to find a job quickly and properly earn a living.
Neutral— To fail to earn enough money to eat, to starve. This is a more colloquial and dire idiom for extreme financial hardship due to lack of work.
このままでは食いっぱぐれてしまうかもしれない。(Kono mama de wa kui-pagurete shimau kamoshirenai.) If things continue like this, I might not be able to earn enough to eat.
Informal/Strong— To settle down, to commit oneself to something. In the context of unemployment, it can mean to commit to finding a stable job or to start a serious job search.
失業中に、腰を据えてキャリアプランを考え直した。(Shitsugyou chuu ni, koshi o soete kyaria puran o kangae naoshita.) During my unemployment, I settled down and rethought my career plan.
Neutral— To make a fortune, to achieve great success. This is an aspiration for those who are unemployed, hoping to find a path to success.
失業を機に、一旗揚げようと決意した。(Shitsugyou o ki ni, hitohata ageyou to ketsui shita.) Taking unemployment as an opportunity, I decided to aim for great success.
Neutral/Aspirational— To rebuild one's livelihood. This implies a process of recovery after a period of hardship, often including unemployment.
失業後、必死で生計を立て直した。(Shitsugougo, hisshi de seikei o tatenaosita.) After becoming unemployed, I desperately rebuilt my livelihood.
NeutralEasily Confused
Both terms refer to a state of not having a job.
'Shitsugyou' specifically refers to being unemployed and actively seeking employment. 'Mushoku' is a more general term for being jobless, which can include retired individuals, students, or those who have chosen not to work, in addition to those actively seeking jobs.
彼は失業中なので、毎日履歴書を送っている。(Kare wa shitsugyou chuu nanode, mainichi rirekisho o okutte iru.) He is unemployed, so he sends out resumes every day. vs. 祖父は無職だが、趣味を楽しんでいる。(Sofu wa mushoku da ga, shumi o tanoshinde iru.) My grandfather is jobless, but he enjoys his hobbies.
'Kaiko' is a cause of 'shitsugyou'.
'Kaiko' (dismissal/layoff) is the event or action by an employer that leads to a person becoming unemployed. 'Shitsugyou' is the resulting state or condition of being unemployed.
会社都合で解雇された。(Kaisha tsugou de kaiko sareta.) I was laid off due to company reasons. (This event leads to shitsugyou).
These concepts are closely related; someone who is 'shitsugyou' is typically 'kyuushokuchuu'.
'Shitsugyou' describes the state of being unemployed. 'Kyuushokuchuu' describes the activity of looking for a job. One is a state, the other is an action.
失業してから、求職活動を続けている。(Shitsugyou shite kara, kyuushoku katsudou o tsuzukete iru.) Since becoming unemployed, I have continued my job-hunting activities.
Both indicate a lack of employment.
'Shoku ga nai' is a more casual and direct phrase meaning 'to not have a job'. 'Shitsugyou' is a more formal term, often used in economic or social contexts, and specifically implies actively seeking work.
仕事が見つからなくて、職がないんだ。(Shigoto ga mitsukerarenakute, shoku ga nain da.) I can't find a job, so I'm jobless. (Informal) vs. 失業率の上昇が懸念されている。(Shitsugyouritsu no joushou ga kenensarete iru.) The rise in the unemployment rate is a concern. (Formal).
This is a common phrase associated with unemployment.
'Shitsugyou hoken' refers to 'unemployment insurance' or 'unemployment benefits', which are systems or payments provided to those who are unemployed. 'Shitsugyou' is the state of being unemployed itself.
失業保険をもらって生活している。(Shitsugyou hoken o moratte seikatsu shite iru.) I am living by receiving unemployment benefits.
Sentence Patterns
Noun + がなくなりました。
仕事がなくなりました。(Shigoto ga nakunari mashita.) I lost my job.
Noun + して、失業しました。
会社が倒産して、失業しました。(Kaisha ga tousan shite, shitsugyou shimashita.) The company went bankrupt, and I became unemployed.
Noun + 中です。
現在、失業中です。(Genzai, shitsugyou chuu desu.) I am currently unemployed.
Noun + 率が上昇しています。
失業率が上昇しています。(Shitsugyouritsu ga joushou shite imasu.) The unemployment rate is rising.
Noun + による経済的困難。
失業による経済的困難に直面している。(Shitsugyou ni yoru keizaiteki konnan ni chokumen shite iru.) Facing economic hardship due to unemployment.
Noun + から立ち直る。
失業から立ち直り、新しいキャリアを築いた。(Shitsugyou kara tachinaori, atarashii kyaria o kizuita.) Recovering from unemployment, I built a new career.
Noun + という社会現象。
失業という社会現象の分析。(Shitsugyou to iu shakai genshou no bunseki.) Analysis of the social phenomenon of unemployment.
Noun + の持続可能性。
失業保険制度の持続可能性。(Shitsugyou hoken seido no jizoku kanousei.) Sustainability of the unemployment insurance system.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High (in relevant contexts like news, economics, job seeking)
-
Using 失業 (shitsugyou) for retirement.
→
退職 (taishoku) or 年金生活 (nenkin seikatsu).
'Shitsugyou' implies being unemployed and actively seeking work. Retirement is a planned cessation of work, not necessarily involving job seeking. Use 'taishoku' for resignation/retirement.
-
Confusing 失業 (shitsugyou) and 無職 (mushoku).
→
Use 'shitsugyou' when actively seeking work; 'mushoku' is broader.
'Shitsugyou' is specifically for those looking for a job. 'Mushoku' can include students, retirees, or those not seeking work. For example, '彼は失業中だ' (He is unemployed and looking) vs. '彼は無職だ' (He is jobless - could be retired).
-
Using 失業 (shitsugyou) as a standalone adjective.
→
Use with する (suru) or as part of a noun phrase.
'Shitsugyou' is a noun. You need to use it with a verb like 'suru' (to do) to form 'shitsugyou suru' (to become unemployed) or 'shitsugyou shite iru' (to be unemployed).
-
Misunderstanding the nuance of 'shitsugyou' vs. 'kaiko'.
→
'Kaiko' is the act of being fired/laid off; 'shitsugyou' is the resulting state.
'Kaiko' (解雇) is the employer's action of dismissing an employee. 'Shitsugyou' (失業) is the state of the person who is now without a job. One is the cause, the other is the effect.
-
Overusing 'shitsugyou' for short, planned job gaps.
→
Use other phrasing for planned transitions.
While technically unemployed during a short break between jobs, 'shitsugyou' often implies a more significant or involuntary period of joblessness. For planned transitions, simply stating you are 'looking for the next opportunity' might be more appropriate.
Tips
Distinguish 'Shitsugyou' from 'Mushoku'
Remember that 'shitsugyou' (失業) specifically means being unemployed and actively looking for work. 'Mushoku' (無職) is a broader term for being jobless, which can include retirees or students. Use 'shitsugyou' when the active search for employment is implied.
Use with 'Suru'
The noun 'shitsugyou' is most commonly used with the verb 'suru' (する) to form phrases like 'shitsugyou suru' (to become unemployed) or 'shitsugyou shite iru' (to be unemployed). For example, '彼は失業しました' (He became unemployed).
Economic and Social Discussions
You will frequently encounter 'shitsugyou' in news reports, economic analyses, and discussions about social welfare. Pay attention to related terms like 'shitsugyouritsu' (unemployment rate) and 'shitsugyou hoken' (unemployment insurance).
Clear 'Tsu' and 'Gyo'
Practice pronouncing 'shitsugyou' clearly, ensuring the 'tsu' sound is short and distinct, and the 'gyo' sound is articulated properly. This will help native speakers understand you better.
Visual Association
Create a mental image, such as a person holding a 'lost' sign over their 'work' (業). Visualizing this can help you recall the meaning and kanji of 'shitsugyou'.
Formality Matters
While 'shitsugyou' itself is neutral, phrases like '失業率' are formal. In casual conversation, 'shoku ga nai' (職がない - jobless) might be used more often, but 'shitsugyou' is the standard term in formal settings.
Know the Nuances
Learn related terms like 'koyou' (employment), 'shuushoku' (finding a job), and 'kaiko' (dismissal) to better understand the spectrum of employment situations and their relationship to 'shitsugyou'.
Use in Sentences
Actively try to create your own sentences using 'shitsugyou' in different contexts. For example, '失業期間中に何をしましたか？' (What did you do during your unemployment period?).
Cultural Significance
Understand that in Japanese culture, employment often carries significant social weight. 'Shitsugyou' can sometimes be associated with a degree of stigma, so be mindful of the cultural context when discussing it.
Listen for Context
When listening to Japanese, pay attention to the context surrounding the word 'shitsugyou'. This will help you grasp its precise meaning and usage in various situations, from economic news to personal stories.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a person who has 'lost' (失) their 'work' (業). Picture a briefcase falling from someone's hand, symbolizing the loss of their job. The sound 'shitsu' can remind you of 'shattered' dreams of employment.
Visual Association
Visualize a person standing outside a factory with a 'closed' sign on it, looking dejected. Alternatively, picture a graph showing a sharp decline, representing lost jobs.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain the difference between '失業' (shitsugyou) and '無職' (mushoku) to a friend using only Japanese words you know. This will reinforce the specific meaning of 'shitsugyou'.
Word Origin
The word '失業' is a Sino-Japanese compound word, formed by combining two kanji characters. The first character, '失' (shitsu), means 'to lose' or 'loss', and the second character, '業' (gyou), means 'work', 'business', or 'occupation'.
Original meaning: Literally means 'loss of work' or 'loss of occupation'.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese)Cultural Context
When discussing unemployment, especially in person, it's important to be sensitive. Avoid making assumptions about why someone is unemployed. Focus on offering support or understanding rather than judgment.
While 'unemployment' is a direct translation, the cultural weight and social implications of job loss can differ. In English-speaking contexts, while unemployment is serious, the cultural emphasis might be more on individual resilience and career mobility.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Economic News Reports
- 失業率が上昇しています。
- 失業問題が深刻化しています。
- 失業保険の給付期間が延長されました。
Personal Job Search
- 失業してしまいました。
- 失業中です。仕事を探しています。
- 失業期間中にスキルアップしたいです。
Government Policy Discussions
- 失業対策が必要です。
- 失業者の社会復帰を支援します。
- 失業率の低下を目指します。
Conversations about Financial Hardship
- 失業して、生活が苦しいです。
- 失業保険でなんとか暮らしています。
- 失業から立ち直れるか心配です。
Academic Discussions on Labor
- 構造的失業について分析する。
- 失業が経済に与える影響を考察する。
- 長期失業者の問題点。
Conversation Starters
"最近、経済のニュースで失業率についてよく聞きますが、どう思いますか？"
"もし失業したら、まず何をしますか？"
"失業期間中に、どんなことをして過ごしていましたか？"
"失業保険について、何か知っていますか？"
"失業問題は、私たちの社会にどのような影響を与えると思いますか？"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you or someone you know experienced unemployment. What were the challenges and how were they overcome?
Imagine you are a government official tasked with reducing the unemployment rate. What policies would you implement?
Reflect on the importance of employment in your life. How does it contribute to your sense of identity and purpose?
Write about the potential future of work and how it might affect unemployment rates and the job market.
If you were to experience unemployment, what skills or knowledge would you prioritize acquiring to improve your job prospects?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'Shitsugyou' specifically refers to the state of being unemployed and actively seeking a job. 'Mushoku' is a broader term meaning 'jobless', which can include retired people, students, stay-at-home parents, or those who are not actively looking for work. So, while someone who is 'shitsugyou' is also 'mushoku', not everyone who is 'mushoku' is necessarily 'shitsugyou'.
The word 'shitsugyou' is commonly used in formal contexts such as news reports about the economy, discussions about government policies on employment, and in official documents. It's also used in personal conversations when someone has lost their job and is looking for new employment.
Common phrases include '失業する' (shitsugyou suru - to become unemployed), '失業中' (shitsugyou chuu - currently unemployed), '失業率' (shitsugyouritsu - unemployment rate), '失業保険' (shitsugyou hoken - unemployment insurance), and '失業手当' (shitsugyou teate - unemployment benefits).
Yes, 'shitsugyou' generally carries a negative connotation because it implies a lack of employment, which can lead to financial hardship, stress, and a loss of identity for some individuals. However, it is also a neutral term used in statistical and economic reporting.
In Japan, unemployment benefits are typically applied for at Hello Work (ハローワーク - Haroowakku), the public employment service center. You would usually need to submit documents proving your employment history and your status as actively seeking new employment. This process is often referred to using terms like '失業保険の申請' (shitsugyou hoken no shinsei - application for unemployment insurance).
'Kaiko' refers to the act of being dismissed or laid off by an employer. It is the event that causes someone to become unemployed. 'Shitsugyou' is the resulting state of being unemployed and actively seeking work. So, 'kaiko' is a cause, and 'shitsugyou' is the effect.
While technically someone who quit their job is unemployed, the term 'shitsugyou' often implies involuntary job loss or a situation where the person is actively seeking new employment. If someone quit voluntarily and is not actively looking for work, they might be described more broadly as 'mushoku' (jobless) rather than specifically 'shitsugyou'.
The unemployment rate is called '失業率' (shitsugyouritsu).
A high unemployment rate generally indicates a weak economy. It can lead to decreased consumer spending, increased social welfare costs, potential social unrest, and a decline in overall economic productivity.
Many people will actively seek new employment, often utilizing public employment services like Hello Work. Some may use this time for skill development or retraining. Applying for unemployment benefits ('shitsugyou hoken') is also common. The cultural emphasis on employment means that many strive to return to work as soon as possible.
Test Yourself 10 questions
/ 10 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
失業 (shitsugyou) means unemployment, the state of not having a job while actively seeking one. It's a crucial term in economic discussions and personal narratives, often paired with verbs like する (suru) to indicate experiencing or causing unemployment.
- Unemployment: not having a job and looking for one.
- Used for economic news and personal situations.
- Often paired with verbs like 'suru' (to do).
- Distinguished from retirement or not working by choice.
Distinguish 'Shitsugyou' from 'Mushoku'
Remember that 'shitsugyou' (失業) specifically means being unemployed and actively looking for work. 'Mushoku' (無職) is a broader term for being jobless, which can include retirees or students. Use 'shitsugyou' when the active search for employment is implied.
Use with 'Suru'
The noun 'shitsugyou' is most commonly used with the verb 'suru' (する) to form phrases like 'shitsugyou suru' (to become unemployed) or 'shitsugyou shite iru' (to be unemployed). For example, '彼は失業しました' (He became unemployed).
Economic and Social Discussions
You will frequently encounter 'shitsugyou' in news reports, economic analyses, and discussions about social welfare. Pay attention to related terms like 'shitsugyouritsu' (unemployment rate) and 'shitsugyou hoken' (unemployment insurance).
Clear 'Tsu' and 'Gyo'
Practice pronouncing 'shitsugyou' clearly, ensuring the 'tsu' sound is short and distinct, and the 'gyo' sound is articulated properly. This will help native speakers understand you better.
Example
不況の影響で、失業率が上昇している。
Related Content
More society words
活動
B1A thing that a person or group does or has done; the state of being active.
実態
B1The actual condition or reality of a situation, especially as opposed to how it is supposed to be or how it appears.
行政
B1Administration or government.
アメリカ
A1America.
権威
B1The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience, or a person with expert knowledge. Frequently used in IELTS when discussing leadership or academic expertise.
恩恵
B1A benefit or advantage derived from something. Used in IELTS for discussing the pros of technology or nature.
偏向
B2A bias, lean, or inclination toward a specific direction or ideology, often used to describe media or political views.
候補者
B2A person who is being considered for a position, an award, or an office; a candidate.
慈善
B2Help or money given to those in need; an organization set up to provide help and raise money for those in need.
育児
B2The process of caring for and raising a child from birth until they are independent.
