Translation guide
In Japanese, 'social security' is a broad concept covering public pensions, health insurance, and welfare. The most common term is 社会保障 (しゃかいほしょう), but specific programs have their own names.
Referring to the overall social security framework, including pensions, health insurance, and public assistance.
The standard term for the social security system as a whole. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
Japan's social security system is complicated.
Social security costs are increasing.
Talking about public pension programs, similar to U.S. Social Security retirement benefits.
Referring to the identification number used for social security in the U.S. or the equivalent in Japan.
Direct translation for 'social security number', used when talking about the U.S. system. In Japan, the equivalent is マイナンバー (My Number).
In the U.S., a social security number is required.
Japan's individual identification number system, used for social security, tax, and disaster response. Often called 個人番号 (こじんばんごう) formally.
Discussing the payroll tax or contributions that fund social security.
Referring to the safety net aspect, such as welfare benefits for low-income individuals.
Public assistance or welfare. This is the specific program for those in financial need, not a direct translation of 'social security' but often what is meant in context.
Receive welfare/public assistance.
The social security safety net. A more abstract term used in policy discussions.
Strengthen the social security safety net.
The U.S. 'Social Security' program is primarily a pension system, while Japanese 社会保障 encompasses a wider range of programs. When referring to retirement benefits, 年金 is more precise.
年金 specifically means pension. 社会保障 is the broader system. If you say 'I'm on social security' meaning retirement benefits, use 年金. If discussing the system as a whole, use 社会保障.
I receive a pension every month.
Public pension, as opposed to private pensions. Emphasizes the government-run aspect.
It's hard to live on just the public pension.
I got a My Number card.