Translation guide
The professional field and practice of helping individuals, families, and communities to enhance their well-being. In Japanese, the term is often used as a loanword, but native equivalents exist for specific contexts.
Referring to social work as a career, discipline, or area of study.
The most common and direct equivalent, widely used in professional and academic contexts.
She is studying social work at university.
Literally 'social welfare', often used for the broader field including social work, but can sound more institutional or policy-oriented.
Specifically the academic study of social welfare/social work.
I am majoring in social welfare studies.
Describing the actual work done by social workers, such as counseling, case management, or community support.
Means 'social work practice', commonly used to refer to the hands-on aspect.
He focuses on social work practice.
A more general term meaning 'welfare work', often used in everyday conversation.
Refers specifically to casework, a method within social work. Used in professional settings.
Referring to social work services provided by agencies or governments.
ソーシャルワーク is a direct loanword and is preferred in professional and academic circles when referring to the specific discipline of social work. 社会福祉 is broader, often encompassing social welfare policies and systems. In casual conversation, 福祉の仕事 is more natural than either.
Study social work theory.
Discuss the social welfare system.
Do not translate 'social work' literally as 社会的な仕事 (shakai-teki na shigoto), which means 'social job' and does not convey the professional field.
I have a degree in social work.
Social work is a challenging but fulfilling career.
I want to work in the field of social welfare.
Welfare work is tough, but it's rewarding.
To improve casework skills.
Please tell me how to access social welfare services.