Japanese · Work & Business
給料
kyuuryou
Salary / Wages
Intermediatenoun
Definition
Regular payment for work. Japan's seniority-based pay system (年功序列 nenkoujoretsu) traditionally increases salary with age and tenure.
Example
来月から給料が上がります。
My salary will increase from next month.
Etymology
The term '給料' (kyuuryou) combines '給' (kyuu), meaning 'to supply,' and '料' (ryou), meaning 'material' or 'reward.' It developed during Japan's economic modernization in the Meiji era.
How & Where It’s Used
'給料' is mainly used in formal contexts, particularly in discussions about employment and finance. It is universally understood in business and economic discussions across Japan.