Translation guide
The English word 'subsidiary' can refer to a company controlled by a parent company, or more broadly to something that is secondary or supplementary. This guide focuses on the business meaning, which is the most common use for learners.
Referring to a subsidiary company in a corporate context.
The standard term for a subsidiary company. Used in business and legal contexts.
Describing something that is less important or auxiliary.
When 'subsidiary' means 'secondary', do not use 子会社. That word is strictly for companies. Use adjectives like 補助的な or 副次的な instead.
The subsidiary is located overseas.
We established a new subsidiary.
Refers to an affiliated company, which may not be fully controlled. Often translated as 'affiliate' but can overlap with 'subsidiary' in some contexts.
That affiliate is not our subsidiary.
He plays a subsidiary role.
Means 'secondary' or 'subsidiary' in the sense of being of lesser importance. Often used in formal or written contexts.
That issue is a subsidiary one.
Means 'subordinate' or 'dependent'. Can be used for subsidiary relationships but is less common in everyday speech.
The organization is in a subsidiary position.