Translation guide
The English word 'offshore' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: geographical location (in the sea, away from the coast), financial/legal contexts (in a foreign country with tax advantages), and business operations (outsourcing to another country). It also touches on wind energy and other specialized uses.
Describing something situated or happening in the sea, at a distance from the shore.
A noun meaning 'offshore' or 'open sea'. Often used with の to modify nouns.
Loanword from English, used in technical or business contexts, especially for oil rigs, wind farms, etc.
オフショア油田
offshore oil field
A more literary or descriptive way to say 'offshore', literally 'of the offing'.
沖の島
an offshore island
Referring to bank accounts, companies, or investments located in a jurisdiction with low taxes or lax regulations.
The standard term in finance and business. Used as a prefix or standalone.
Literally 'overseas', but can be used in general contexts to mean 'offshore' when the tax haven aspect is not emphasized.
海外の金融センター
offshore financial center
Specifically 'tax haven', used when emphasizing the tax avoidance aspect.
タックスヘイブンの口座
offshore account (in a tax haven)
Describing the practice of moving business processes or jobs to a foreign country, often for lower costs.
The standard term for 'offshoring' as a business strategy.
オフショアリングによってコストを削減する。
Reduce costs through offshoring.
Used as a prefix in compounds like オフショア開発 (offshore development).
オフショア開発
offshore development
General term for 'overseas relocation' of business operations.
工場の海外移転
offshoring of a factory
Specifically referring to wind turbines located in the sea.
The standard term for 'offshore wind power'.
洋上風力発電
offshore wind power generation
Alternative using the loanword, common in business contexts.
オフショア風力発電所
offshore wind farm
沖合 (おきあい) only refers to physical location at sea. For financial or business contexts, use オフショア or other terms.
オフショア口座
offshore account