Japanese · Work & Business
上司
joushi
Superior / Boss
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A person in authority above one in the workplace hierarchy. Japanese workplace relationships are hierarchical, and showing proper respect to superiors is essential.
Example
上司に報告書を提出しました。
I submitted a report to my boss.
Etymology
'上司' (joushi) is composed of '上' (jou), meaning 'above' or 'upper,' and '司' (shi), meaning 'to administer' or 'to manage.' It emerged in the context of hierarchical structures in workplaces in Japan.
How & Where It’s Used
'上司' is predominantly used in formal or work-related contexts, often employed in spoken and written language within businesses. It is regionally neutral but often reflects social hierarchies.