Translation guide
The English word 'retiring' can refer to leaving one's career permanently, withdrawing from a position or activity, or describing a shy personality. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
To stop working permanently, usually due to age
General term for retiring from a job or career. Neutral and widely used.
来年、退職する予定です。
I plan to retire next year.
My father retired at 60.
Specifically retiring at the mandatory retirement age set by a company. Very common in Japan.
彼は定年退職後、田舎に引っ越した。
After retiring at the mandatory age, he moved to the countryside.
Literally 'quit work'. Used for leaving a job, but not necessarily permanent retirement. Can be used for early retirement or career changes.
健康上の理由で仕事を辞めました。
I quit my job for health reasons.
Often used for retiring from a prominent position, like politics, sports, or entertainment. Implies a public withdrawal.
その選手は引退を発表した。
The athlete announced his retirement.
Traditional term for retiring from active life, often to a quiet, secluded lifestyle. Connotes old age and withdrawal from society.
祖父は田舎で隠居生活を送っている。
My grandfather lives a retired life in the countryside.
To step down from a role, or stop participating in something
To step down or withdraw from a position. Often used for resigning from a post.
社長の座を退くことを決意した。
He decided to retire from the position of company president.
To withdraw or step aside, often voluntarily. Can be used for leaving a job, relationship, or competition.
To resign from an official position. More formal than 退く.
大臣が辞任した。
The minister resigned (retired from office).
Describing someone who is quiet, avoids attention, or is not outgoing
Describes a shy, timid, or bashful personality. Common adjective.
彼女は内気な性格だ。
She has a retiring personality.
Means reserved, modest, or restrained. Often positive, implying humility.
彼は控えめな人で、あまり話さない。
He is a retiring person and doesn't talk much.
Describes someone who is withdrawn or tends to hold back. Slightly more negative than 控えめな.
引っ込み思案な子供だった。
I was a retiring child.
退職 is a general term for leaving a job permanently. 引退 is used for retiring from a high-profile career like sports or politics. 定年退職 specifically means retiring at the company's mandatory retirement age, which is a common practice in Japan.
When 'retiring' means shy, the Japanese words 内気な or 控えめな are appropriate. Do not use 退職 or 引退 for personality traits.
He retired from the political world.