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.
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.
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.
I quit my job for health reasons.
Often used for retiring from a prominent position, like politics, sports, or entertainment. Implies a public withdrawal.
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.
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.
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.
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.
She has a retiring personality.
Means reserved, modest, or restrained. Often positive, implying humility.
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Describes someone who is withdrawn or tends to hold back.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.
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.
彼は政界から身を引いた。
He retired from the political world.