Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of taxes is expressed through several words and phrases depending on the type of tax, the context, and the level of formality. The most common general term is 税金 (ぜいきん).
Referring to taxes in general, such as income tax, consumption tax, or the overall tax burden.
The most common and general word for 'tax' or 'taxes'. It can refer to any kind of tax and is used in everyday conversation.
A more formal or written term for 'tax', often used in compound words or official contexts.
税の負担が増える。
The tax burden increases.
Referring to a particular tax, such as consumption tax, income tax, or residential tax.
Consumption tax (similar to VAT or sales tax). Currently 10% in Japan (with a reduced rate for some items).
消費税が10%になった。
The consumption tax became 10%.
Income tax. Levied on individual income.
Resident tax. A local tax paid to the prefecture and municipality where you live.
Corporate tax. Levied on company profits.
Expressing actions like paying taxes, tax returns, tax evasion, etc.
Final tax return. The annual filing of income and deductions, usually done in February-March.
確定申告の時期が近づいた。
Tax return season is approaching.
Tax evasion. Illegal non-payment or underpayment of taxes.
Tax saving. Legal reduction of tax burden through deductions, etc.
税金 is the everyday word for taxes. 税 is more formal and often appears in compound words (e.g., 消費税, 所得税). In casual speech, 税金 is preferred.
税金が安いといいな。
I wish taxes were lower.
税制改革が議論されている。
Tax system reform is being discussed.
税金を払わなければならない。
I have to pay taxes.
消費税が上がった。
The consumption tax increased.
所得税の申告をする。
To file an income tax return.
住民税は前年の所得に基づいて計算される。
Resident tax is calculated based on the previous year's income.
法人税の税率が引き下げられた。
The corporate tax rate was lowered.
脱税は犯罪です。
Tax evasion is a crime.
節税対策を考える。
To think about tax-saving measures.