Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Salary" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "salary", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
給与
きゅうよ (kyuuyo)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
減俸
げんぽう (genpō)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "salary" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 給与 and 減俸.
In Japanese, 給与 (きゅうよ (kyuuyo)) is typically associated with "salary, wages, pay" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A formal term for the total compensation received for labor, including base salary, allowances, and bonuses. Often used in business, legal, or official contexts..
On the other hand, 減俸 (げんぽう (genpō)) maps to "salary reduction; pay cut" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents This term refers to a reduction in one's salary or remuneration. It is often used in formal contexts such as news reports, business discussions, or official announcements regarding financial penalties or company performance issues.. A literal translation of "salary" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "給与"
新しい会社の給与体系について面接で確認した。
I confirmed the new company's salary system during the interview.
Bilingual Context for "減俸"
会社の業績悪化により、社長の減俸が決まった。
Due to the company's poor performance, the president's salary reduction was decided.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "新しい会社の ＿＿＿ 体系について面接で確認した。" (Meaning: "I confirmed the new company's salary system during the interview.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "給与" fits here because it means "salary, wages, pay" in the context of: "I confirmed the new company's salary system during the interview.". "減俸" represents "salary reduction; pay cut".