Translation guide
The English word "pension" refers to a regular payment made to a retired person. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 年金 (nenkin), which covers both public and private pension systems. However, there are also words for specific types of pensions, such as corporate pensions or one-time retirement payments.
To refer to a regular payment received after retirement, typically from a government or employer scheme.
The general term for a pension, covering both public and private systems. This is the most common and natural word.
I live on my pension in my old age.
Specifically refers to a government pension, especially for former public servants or military personnel. This is a formal, somewhat dated term.
To refer to a pension provided by a company or private institution, often as part of employee benefits.
To refer to a lump-sum payment given upon retirement, which is common in Japan instead of or in addition to a monthly pension.
To refer to a small hotel or boarding house, especially in Europe, offering lodging and sometimes meals.
The English word "pension" is often directly translated as ペンション, but this means a guesthouse in Japanese. For retirement income, always use 年金 or a related term.
年金 (nenkin) is a recurring payment (like a monthly pension), while 退職金 (taishokukin) is a one-time lump sum given at retirement. Many Japanese companies provide both, but they are distinct concepts.
Learn about the pension system.
彼は軍人恩給を受けている。
He receives a military pension.
Specifically a corporate pension plan. Commonly used in business contexts.
This company has a well-developed corporate pension plan.
The Employees' Pension Insurance, a public pension for company employees in Japan. Often translated as "welfare pension" or "employee pension."
I am enrolled in the employees' pension insurance.
A retirement pension, often used for corporate pensions or individual retirement plans.
Build up a retirement pension.
A lump-sum retirement payment. This is not a recurring pension but is often what English speakers might call a "pension" in the context of a one-time payout.
I bought a house with my retirement lump sum.
A loanword from English, used in Japanese to refer to a Western-style guesthouse or small hotel, often in resort areas. It does not mean retirement income.
This word only means a guesthouse, not a retirement pension. Do not use it for retirement income.
I stayed at a pension in Karuizawa.