Translation guide
The English word 'marketing' is widely used in Japanese, but its meaning can be narrower than in English. This guide covers how to express marketing concepts naturally in Japanese, from the general business function to specific promotional activities.
Referring to the overall business activity of marketing, including strategy, research, and planning.
The most direct and common term. Used in business contexts for the strategic function.
He works in the marketing department.
A more formal, literal term meaning 'market activities'. Rarely used in everyday business; more common in academic or economic contexts.
Referring to the specific activities of promoting a product or service, such as advertising, events, or campaigns.
Referring to the research and analysis aspect of marketing, such as studying consumer behavior or market trends.
Referring to marketing as an academic subject or career path.
マーケティング is the broader strategic concept, while 宣伝 refers specifically to promotional activities. In many contexts where English uses 'marketing' to mean advertising or promotion, 宣伝 is more natural.
We need to improve our marketing.
We need to develop a marketing strategy.
Literally 'sales promotion'. Often used for the practical, tactical side of marketing, especially in retail.
We are planning an event for sales promotion.
We conducted an analysis of market activities.
The most common word for promotion or advertising. Can be used for both commercial and non-commercial promotion.
We started promoting the new product.
Word-of-mouth promotion is effective.
Specifically refers to advertising, such as TV commercials, print ads, or online ads.
We placed a TV advertisement.
Loanword from English, often used for sales promotions, campaigns, or special offers.
This month's promotion is 10% off all items.
The standard term for market research.
I will report the results of the market research.
Loanword, often used in business settings, especially when referring to modern, data-driven research.
We commissioned a marketing research company.
Used for both the academic discipline and the profession.
I majored in marketing at university.
I want to get a job in marketing.
We carry out promotional activities based on the marketing strategy.
In casual conversation, using マーケティング to mean 'advertising' or 'promotion' can sound overly technical or like business jargon. Use 宣伝 or 広告 instead.
The marketing campaign was a success.
She works in marketing.