Translation guide
The English word "enterprise" has several distinct meanings: a business company, a large project or undertaking, and the quality of showing initiative. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each.
Referring to a business organization, especially a company or firm.
a small enterprise · a state-owned enterprise · private enterprise
The most common and general term for a business enterprise, from small companies to large corporations.
He runs a small enterprise.
There are many small and medium-sized enterprises in this area.
General word for 'company'. More common in everyday speech than 企業, but slightly less formal.
He started a new enterprise (company).
Often used for a business undertaking or operation, especially in compound terms like 事業者 (business operator).
He started a new enterprise (business venture).
Specifically refers to a startup or venture business, often in tech.
He founded an IT enterprise (startup).
Referring to a large, important, or difficult project, plan, or undertaking.
a bold enterprise · a joint enterprise · a commercial enterprise
The most direct equivalent for a planned undertaking, especially in business or public contexts.
The enterprise requires a huge amount of capital.
Means 'plan' or 'project'. Use when the focus is on the planning aspect rather than the execution.
Loanword for 'project', widely used in business and technical contexts.
Means 'attempt' or 'endeavor'. Suitable when emphasizing the challenging or experimental nature.
Referring to the quality of being bold, resourceful, and willing to take on new projects.
show enterprise · a man of enterprise · private enterprise (as a concept)
A set phrase meaning 'enterprising spirit' or 'initiative'. Often used in formal contexts.
He is full of enterprise.
Literally 'enterprise mind', meaning entrepreneurial spirit or initiative.
Means 'adventurous spirit'. Can be used when enterprise implies a willingness to take risks.
Means 'proactiveness' or 'initiative'. A more common, everyday term for showing drive.
When no single noun fits, describe the quality using a phrase meaning 'to take the initiative and act on one's own'.
He is a person of enterprise.
The loanword エンタープライズ is mainly used in proper names (like the starship Enterprise) or specific IT contexts (enterprise software). It is not a natural translation for everyday business or initiative.
企業 (kigyō) is more formal and often used in economic or legal contexts. 会社 (kaisha) is the everyday word for 'company'. Use 企業 when discussing business as a sector or concept, and 会社 for a specific firm.
これは国家的事業だ。
This is a national enterprise.
彼らは大胆な計画に乗り出した。
They embarked on a bold enterprise.
The enterprise was a great success.
それは困難な試みだった。
It was a difficult enterprise.
Her success is due to her enterprise.
He is full of enterprise (adventurous spirit).
His enterprise (initiative) was appreciated.