Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'physical work' is expressed through several words that emphasize different aspects: manual labor, physical tasks, or the effort involved. The most common and versatile term is 肉体労働 (nikutai roudou), which directly translates to 'physical labor' and is used in formal and everyday contexts. Other options include 力仕事 (chikara shigoto) for tasks requiring strength, and 作業 (sagyou) for general manual work or operations. The choice depends on the nuance: whether you're referring to a job, a specific task, or the nature of the work.
Referring to work that primarily involves physical effort, often as a job category (e.g., construction, farming).
The standard term for 'physical labor' or 'manual labor' as a type of work. It is neutral and widely understood.
He makes a living doing physical work.
Physical work is mentally tough as well.
Emphasizes work that requires physical strength, like lifting or carrying. Often used for specific tasks rather than a job category.
Moving involves a lot of physical work.
Means 'heavy labor' or 'hard physical work', often with a nuance of being demanding or grueling.
This job is hard physical work, but it's rewarding.
Referring to hands-on work, often in a technical or practical context (e.g., assembly, repair, fieldwork).
A broad term for 'work' or 'operations', often manual. It can refer to physical tasks in factories, construction, or even desk work, but context usually implies hands-on activity.
This work requires physical strength.
Specifically 'manual work' done by hand, as opposed to machine work. Often used in crafting or detailed tasks.
Focusing on the physical aspect of work, often in contrast to mental effort.
肉体労働 (nikutai roudou) is the most direct translation for 'physical work' as a job category. 力仕事 (chikara shigoto) emphasizes strength and is often used for specific tasks. 作業 (sagyou) is a broader term for operations or manual work, not necessarily strenuous. Use 肉体労働 when talking about occupations, 力仕事 for tasks requiring muscle, and 作業 for general hands-on activities.
He is a manual laborer.
Carrying this box is physical work.
The work at the factory is monotonous.
The phrase '物理的な仕事' (butsuriteki na shigoto) is a literal translation that sounds unnatural and refers to 'physical' in the scientific sense (physics), not bodily labor. Always use the terms above.
physical work (incorrect, means physics-related work)
On-site work involves danger.
This process is done entirely by manual work.
Also used in this sense, but slightly more formal. See above.
Physical work is good for your health.