Japanese Business Glossary

電話加入権 (denwa kanyuken) is a Japanese term that translates to "telephone subscription right" or "telephone line ownership" in English. It refers to the right to use a fixed telephone line provided by a telecommunications company. This concept was particularly relevant in Japan before the liberalization of the telecommunications market when obtaining a telephone line required purchasing this right.

In the past, individuals or businesses needed to purchase denwa kanyuken as a prerequisite to having a telephone line installed. This right could be bought, sold, or transferred and was considered an asset. However, with the deregulation and modernization of the telecommunications industry, the requirement for denwa kanyuken has been largely abolished, making it easier and less costly for people to obtain telephone services.

取得 (shutoku) is a Japanese term that translates to "acquisition" or "obtaining" in English. It refers to the act of gaining possession or ownership of something through purchase, inheritance, or other means.

In a business context, 取得 can relate to acquiring assets, property, rights, or shares in a company. For example, a company may 取得 another business to expand its operations or acquire new technologies. It can also refer to individuals acquiring qualifications, skills, or certifications.

The term emphasizes the process of gaining control or ownership of an asset or right, often implying a formal or legal procedure.

暴力団 (boryokudan) is a Japanese term that translates to "organized crime group" or yakuza. It refers to criminal organizations in Japan known for their involvement in various illegal activities, such as extortion, gambling, drug trafficking, prostitution, and loan sharking.

These groups have a hierarchical structure, with members adhering to strict codes of conduct and loyalty. The yakuza have a long history in Japan and are known for their distinctive tattoos and rituals. Despite their criminal activities, they sometimes portray themselves as protectors of traditional Japanese values and communities.

The Japanese government has implemented various laws and measures to combat the influence and activities of 暴力団, aiming to reduce their impact on society and the economy.

代襲相続 (daishuu souzoku) is a Japanese term that translates to "substitute inheritance" or "representation inheritance" in English. This legal concept applies when an heir who would have inherited from a deceased person (the decedent) has already passed away before the decedent. In such cases, the deceased heir's descendants (typically children) inherit in place of the original heir.

For example, if a parent dies and their child, who was the designated heir, has also died, the grandchild would inherit the share that the child would have received. This ensures that the inheritance rights are preserved within the family lineage.

損害賠償 (songai baishou) is a Japanese term that translates to "damages" or "compensation for damages" in English. It refers to the legal obligation to compensate someone for harm or loss caused by wrongful acts, negligence, or breaches of contract.

In a legal context, songai baishou involves assessing the extent of the damage and determining the appropriate amount of money or other compensation that should be provided to the injured party. This can include compensation for physical injury, property damage, financial loss, or emotional distress. The aim is to restore the injured party to the position they were in before the harm occurred.

享受 (kyouju) is a Japanese term that translates to "enjoyment" or "reception" in English. It refers to the act of receiving or enjoying benefits, pleasures, rights, or services.

In a personal context, it can mean enjoying life, pleasures, or activities. For example, 生活を享受する (seikatsu o kyouju suru) means "enjoy life."

In a legal or social context, it can refer to enjoying or receiving rights, benefits, or services. For example, 権利を享受する (kenri o kyouju suru) means "enjoy rights."

The term emphasizes the act of taking in and benefiting from something provided or available.