Translation guide
A labor union organized within a single company, often with limited independence from management. In Japan, this is the most common type of union, distinct from industry-wide or craft unions.
The standard Japanese term for a union organized at the company level, as opposed to an industrial union.
The most direct and common translation. Refers to a union whose membership is limited to employees of a single company.
Many labor unions in Japan are company unions.
Literally 'company-specific union'. Used interchangeably with 企業内組合, but emphasizes the company-by-company structure.
In English, 'company union' often implies a union controlled by the employer, lacking genuine independence. This meaning is less common in Japanese but can be expressed.
A derogatory term for a union that is subservient to management, often established or controlled by the company to prevent genuine labor organizing.
That union is a company union; it does whatever management says.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'a union that does whatever the company says'. Less idiomatic than 御用組合 but clearer in meaning.
企業内組合 is a neutral term describing the structure of a union. 御用組合 is a negative label implying the union is a tool of management. In English, 'company union' can carry the negative connotation, so be careful to choose the right Japanese term based on intent.
Japanese company unions are not necessarily management-dominated unions.
While most Japanese unions are enterprise-based, many are independent and engage in collective bargaining. Using 御用組合 inappropriately can be offensive.
Unlike industrial unions, company unions are organized only by employees of a single company.
It's essentially a company union that doesn't protect workers' rights.