Quick Reference

Meaning & Definition

Shigoto (仕事) means work or job and is a fundamental word for discussing employment, careers, and daily activities in Japanese. Understanding shigoto is essential for professional conversations and general life discussions.

Shigoto refers to work, jobs, occupations, or tasks. The word encompasses both the concept of employment (having a job) and specific work activities (doing work). Shigoto can refer to one’s career, current job position, or any task requiring effort. The term appears in both formal and casual contexts—professional discussions use ‘shigoto’ seriously, while casual conversations might be lighthearted. In Japanese work culture (shigoto bunka), the concept of dedication to one’s job is paramount. Work identity is closely tied to personal identity in Japan—people often introduce themselves by their job. The word combines naturally with other terms: ‘shigoto no tame ni’ (for the sake of work), ‘shigoto ga taihengari’ (work is difficult), etc. Japanese work culture emphasizes loyalty to one’s company and long-term employment relationships.

How to Use It

Shigoto is pronounced ‘shee-GOH-toh.’ It’s one of the most commonly used words in Japanese conversation about daily life and employment. You’ll hear ‘shigoto ga aru’ (have work), ‘shigoto wa dou desu ka’ (how is work?), or ‘shigoto ni iku’ (go to work). The related term ‘hataraku’ (to work) is the verb form. In Japanese business culture, discussing work is common even in casual settings—’shigoto’ is a safe, respectful topic. The word appears constantly in business contexts and everyday conversations.

Kanji Breakdown

仕（し）= serve, 事（じ）= matter/thing

Example Sentences

Cultural Context

Work holds tremendous cultural significance in Japanese society. The concept of ‘company loyalty’ has traditionally been central to Japanese employment—workers often stay with one company for their entire careers, and companies provide job security and identity to employees. Work relationships extend beyond professional boundaries—colleagues socialize together (nomikai = drinking parties), fostering group harmony and bonding. The lifetime employment system (shuushin kouyou), though changing in modern Japan, reflects how deeply work is integrated into Japanese identity and social structure.

Japanese work culture emphasizes dedication, punctuality, and group harmony. Workers often work overtime (zangyo) and take limited vacation time, viewing loyalty to the company as a moral obligation. Business card exchange (meishi koukan) is a formal ritual in Japanese business. However, modern Japan is gradually shifting toward work-life balance awareness, with younger generations questioning traditional overwork expectations. Still, the concept of ‘ikigai’ (life purpose/reason for being) is closely tied to work for many Japanese people.

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