Translation guide
The English word "investment" covers both financial investment and the broader idea of putting resources into something for future benefit. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context: financial investment, business investment, personal investment of time/effort, and metaphorical investment.
Putting money into stocks, bonds, funds, real estate, etc., expecting profit.
The standard term for financial investment. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (投資する).
I started investing in stocks.
You need to understand the risks of investment.
Refers specifically to providing capital for a business or project, often as an investor or partner. More formal than 投資.
He invested in the new company.
Spending money on equipment, facilities, R&D, etc., to grow a business.
Devoting time, energy, or resources to something for future returns, not necessarily financial.
Can be used metaphorically for non-financial investment, such as time or effort. Often used with 時間 (time) or 努力 (effort).
Investing time in language learning is worthwhile.
Self-investment pays off in the future.
Literally 'put strength into', meaning to focus efforts or resources on something. More casual than 投資.
Being deeply involved or committed emotionally to a person, project, or outcome.
投資 (とうし) is the general term for investment, including stocks, real estate, and metaphorical use. 出資 (しゅっし) is specifically providing capital to a business or venture, often implying a stake or partnership. Use 投資 for most situations; use 出資 when emphasizing the act of putting money into a company as an investor.
While 投資 can be used metaphorically for time and effort, it may sound overly formal or business-like in casual conversation. For personal emotional investment, use phrases like 思い入れがある or 入れ込む instead of directly translating 'investment'.
Investment in education is important.
He made a large investment in the stock market.
Capital investment increased this year.
We are investing in education.
彼はその趣味に入れ込んでいる。
He is really invested in that hobby.