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.
He is on 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.
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.
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.
Explicitly states 'to rest due to illness'. Clear and commonly understood.
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.
I have a fever, so I'll take the day off.
Very polite pattern for formal sick leave requests, often in business emails.
While understandable, 病気の休み is not a standard term. Use 病気休暇 or 病欠 instead.
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.
A doctor's note is required to apply for sick leave.
今日は病欠です。
I'm off sick today.
He often takes sick leave.
病気のため休職しています。
I'm on leave due to illness.
風邪で休みます。
I'll take the day off because of a cold.
I was off sick yesterday.
病気で欠席します。
I will be absent due to illness.
I will be taking leave due to poor health.