Translation guide
In Japanese, 'foreign company' is most commonly expressed as 外資系企業 (gaishikei kigyou) for a foreign-affiliated firm operating in Japan, or 外国企業 (gaikoku kigyou) for a company based overseas. The choice depends on context and nuance.
To refer to a company in Japan that is affiliated with or owned by a foreign entity, such as a subsidiary or branch.
The standard term for a foreign-affiliated company in Japan. It emphasizes the capital relationship (foreign investment). Commonly used in business and news.
彼は外資系企業に勤めています。
He works for a foreign-affiliated company.
外資系企業の給料は高いと言われている。
It is said that salaries at foreign-affiliated companies are high.
A shorter form of 外資系企業, often used in compounds or casual conversation. It can also modify other nouns, e.g., 外資系金融機関 (foreign-affiliated financial institution).
外資系で働くのは大変ですか？
Is it tough working at a foreign-affiliated company?
Literally 'foreign company'. Can refer to a company based overseas or a foreign-owned company in Japan. Slightly broader than 外資系企業, but less specific about the capital relationship.
日本に進出する外国企業が増えている。
The number of foreign companies entering Japan is increasing.
To refer to a company that is located in a foreign country, without implying a presence in Japan.
The most direct translation for a company based in another country. Used in news, business, and everyday contexts.
あの外国企業は世界で有名だ。
That foreign company is famous worldwide.
外国企業との取引を始めた。
We started doing business with a foreign company.
Similar to 外国企業, but 海外 (overseas) often implies a broader geographical perspective. Commonly used in economic contexts.
海外企業への投資を検討している。
We are considering investing in overseas companies.
To refer to a foreign company in official documents, legal texts, or formal business settings.
A legal term for a foreign corporation or juridical person. Used in tax, corporate law, and official registrations.
外国法人は日本で課税される場合がある。
Foreign corporations may be subject to taxation in Japan.
外資系企業 specifically refers to a company in Japan that is foreign-owned or foreign-affiliated. 外国企業 is a broader term for any company from another country, whether it operates in Japan or not. In many contexts, 外資系企業 is the natural choice when talking about working for or dealing with a foreign company in Japan.
外資系企業に転職したい。
I want to change jobs to a foreign-affiliated company.
外国企業の製品を輸入する。
We import products from foreign companies.
外資系 can be attached to various nouns to indicate foreign affiliation, e.g., 外資系ホテル (foreign-affiliated hotel), 外資系証券 (foreign securities firm). This is a very productive pattern.