Japanese Business Glossary

帰属 (kizoku) in Japanese means "attribution" or "affiliation." It refers to the concept of belonging or being assigned to a particular entity, group, or category. In a business context, kizoku can be used in various scenarios such as taxation, where it can refer to the attribution of income or expenses to a specific period or entity. In intellectual property, it denotes the attribution of rights or ownership of creations, inventions, or trademarks. In an organizational context, it may refer to an employee’s affiliation with a particular department or division within a company. Understanding the context in which kizoku is used is essential for accurately interpreting its meaning.

交際 (kosai) is a Japanese term that generally refers to socializing, associating, or interacting with others. It can encompass a range of activities and relationships, including friendship, interacting with friends, and engaging in social activities. Networking is also a part of kosai, involving building and maintaining professional or social connections. Additionally, it includes romantic relationships, dating, or being in a romantic relationship. In a business context, kosai often involves networking events, social gatherings, and other activities aimed at building and maintaining professional relationships.

弁解 (benkai) is a Japanese term that translates to "excuse" or "justification" in English. It refers to an explanation given to defend or justify one's actions, often used when someone is trying to avoid blame or criticism.

発注請書 (hacchu keisho) is a document used in Japanese business transactions, translating to "purchase order acceptance" in English. This document serves as a formal acknowledgment from the supplier or vendor that they have received and accepted the purchase order issued by the buyer.

The hacchu keisho typically includes information such as the purchase order number, supplier's details, buyer's details, description of goods or services ordered, quantity and price, delivery date and terms, payment terms, and any other specific terms and conditions related to the order. By issuing a hacchu keisho, the supplier confirms their commitment to deliver the specified goods or services under the agreed terms. This ensures clarity and mutual agreement between the buyer and the supplier, reducing the risk of misunderstandings and disputes.

小売り (kouri) translates to "retail" in English.

Retail refers to the sale of goods and services directly to consumers. It involves the final step of the distribution process where businesses sell products in small quantities to the end-user for personal or household consumption. Retail can be conducted through various channels, including physical stores, online platforms, and catalog sales.

In Japan, retail businesses range from small independent shops to large chain stores and department stores, offering a diverse range of products such as clothing, electronics, food, and more. Retail is a significant part of the economy, reflecting consumer demand and trends.

繰延税金資産 (kurinobe zeikin shisan) translates to "deferred tax assets" in English. This accounting term refers to the amounts of income taxes that are recoverable in future periods due to temporary differences between the tax base of an asset or liability and its carrying amount in the balance sheet, or due to the carryforward of unused tax losses and credits.

Deferred tax assets are recognized when it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. Essentially, they represent a future tax benefit that can be used to reduce taxable income. In practical terms, this means that a company can offset future taxable income with these deferred tax assets, thereby lowering its future tax liability. They are important in financial reporting and tax planning, as they impact a company's financial statements and tax strategies.