Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'sick leave' depends on context: taking time off from work or school due to illness. The most common term is 病気休暇 (byōki kyūka) for formal work leave, while casual situations often use 病欠 (byōketsu) or simply saying you're resting. For school, 病欠 is typical. Note that Japanese work culture often requires a doctor's note (診断書) for extended leave.
To refer to an official, often paid, absence from work because of sickness.
Standard term for sick leave in a company setting. Often used in official documents or when requesting time off.
彼は病気休暇を取っています。
He is on sick leave.
病気休暇の申請には診断書が必要です。
A doctor's note is required to apply for sick leave.
More casual term for absence due to illness, used in both work and school contexts. Can be a noun or suru-verb.
Refers to a leave of absence from work, which can be for medical reasons. More general than just sick leave; often implies a longer period.
病気のため休職しています。
I'm on leave due to illness.
To informally state that you are taking a day off because you are sick.
Common phrase meaning 'to take a sick day'. Used in both work and school settings.
明日、病欠を取ろうと思います。
I think I'll take a sick day tomorrow.
Simple verb meaning 'to rest' or 'to take time off'. In context, it implies sick leave when combined with reason.
風邪で休みます。
I'll take the day off because of a cold.
Explicitly states 'to rest due to illness'. Clear and commonly understood.
昨日は病気で休みました。
I was off sick yesterday.
To refer to absence from school due to illness.
To communicate that you need to take sick leave, either in advance or on the day.
Pattern for giving a reason and stating you'll rest. Replace 〜 with the illness or symptom.
熱があるので休みます。
I have a fever, so I'll take the day off.
Very polite pattern for formal sick leave requests, often in business emails.
体調不良のため休暇をいただきます。
I will be taking leave due to poor health.
While understandable, 病気の休み is not a standard term. Use 病気休暇 or 病欠 instead.
病気休暇を申請する
to apply for sick leave
In many Japanese companies, taking more than a couple of days of sick leave may require a 診断書 (shindansho, doctor's certificate). Be prepared for this cultural difference.
病気で欠席します。
I will be absent due to illness.