Translation guide
The English word 'bonus' can refer to extra money from work, an unexpected benefit, or a special feature included with a product. Japanese uses different words depending on the context.
A sum of money added to an employee's regular salary, often as a reward or seasonal payment.
The most common and direct equivalent for a work bonus. Used for seasonal bonuses (summer/winter) and performance bonuses.
I plan to go on a trip with my summer bonus.
This year's bonus was smaller than last year's.
A more formal term for a bonus, often used in business or official contexts. Can refer to any extra payment beyond regular salary.
A special allowance or extra payment, sometimes used for one-time bonuses or hardship allowances.
I heard there's a special bonus for this project.
A positive extra that comes from a situation, not necessarily money.
Something extra given for free, like a freebie or a little something thrown in. Often used for small, tangible extras.
This snack comes with a bonus sticker.
I bought a lot, so they threw in a little extra.
A privilege or special benefit, often used for membership perks, credit card rewards, or promotional extras.
Something extra, an added bonus. Often used for intangible benefits or additional value beyond the expected.
Added value, often used in business or product descriptions to mean a bonus feature.
An additional item or feature included with a purchase, often as a promotion.
Used for bonus items or services included with a purchase, like pre-order bonuses or limited-time offers.
You can get original goods as a pre-order bonus.
A free extra item, often small and tangible, like a toy in a kids' meal or a sample.
ボーナス is the everyday word for a work bonus. 賞与 is more formal and often appears in contracts or official documents. In casual conversation, stick with ボーナス.
How much was your bonus?
Bonuses are paid twice a year.
ボーナス is almost exclusively for monetary bonuses from work. For a free extra item or unexpected benefit, use おまけ or 特典 instead. Saying ボーナス for a free sticker sounds unnatural.
The company gave me a bonus.
As a bonus, I got a free dessert.
This credit card has great bonus points.
Bonuses are paid according to performance.
会員になると、様々な特典が受けられます。
If you become a member, you can receive various bonuses.
Gaining experience is a bonus of this job.
このソフトには翻訳機能が付加価値としてついています。
This software comes with a translation feature as a bonus.
The magazine came with a bonus pouch.