Translation guide
A person who works excessively and finds it hard to stop. In Japanese, this is often expressed with the loanword ワーカホリック or native terms like 仕事人間. The concept is culturally significant, with 過労死 (death from overwork) being a recognized social issue.
Describing someone who prioritizes work above all else, often to the detriment of their health or personal life.
Referring to the condition or behavior of working excessively.
In Japan, excessive work is a serious social issue. Terms like 過労死 (karōshi) are not used lightly. When discussing workaholism, be mindful of the context and avoid glorifying overwork.
A common, natural term for a person whose life revolves around work. Literally 'work human'. It carries a slightly negative nuance of being one-dimensional.
He's a total workaholic, working even on weekends.
The direct loanword from English. Widely understood, especially in business contexts, but slightly less common in everyday speech than 仕事人間.
Workaholics tend to forget how to take time off.
Literally 'work addiction'. A more clinical or dramatic term, less common in casual conversation.
As a symptom of work addiction, one feels guilty about resting.
A common phrase meaning 'work addiction'. Used to describe the condition rather than the person.
When you become a workaholic, you end up spending less time with your family.
Means 'overwork' or 'excessive labor'. Often used in formal contexts, such as 過労死 (death from overwork).
I got sick from overwork.