Translation guide
Describes a work arrangement where employees take turns covering different time periods. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with the noun 交代制 (こうたいせい) or the verb 交代で働く (こうたいではたらく). The specific shift pattern (day/night, rotating, etc.) can be specified with additional terms.
We work in shifts.
This factory operates on a shift system.
To say that a workplace operates with employees working in shifts, or that someone works shifts.
Noun meaning 'shift system'. Used to describe a workplace or work style where people take turns. Often combined with です or ですよ.
This factory operates on a shift system.
Verb phrase meaning 'to work in shifts'. 交代で is an adverbial form meaning 'in turns' or 'by rotation'.
We work in shifts.
Loanword-based noun meaning 'shift system'. Very common in casual and business contexts, especially in part-time jobs.
This store uses a shift system.
Verb phrase using the loanword シフト. Very natural in conversation about part-time or service jobs.
I work shifts on weekends.
To emphasize that people alternate or rotate through different shifts (e.g., day shift one week, night shift the next).
Formal verb phrase meaning 'to work on a rotating basis'. 交替 is a variant kanji for 交代, both are used. 勤務する means 'to work (at a job)'.
To specify that the shift work involves both day and night periods.
Compound noun meaning 'day and night shift system'. 昼夜 means 'day and night'.
To say 'I work shifts' in a casual, conversational way.
Noun phrase meaning 'shift work'. Often used with です or をしています.
交代制 is the native Japanese term and sounds slightly more formal or traditional. シフト制 is a loanword and is extremely common in part-time jobs, retail, and casual conversation. Both are widely understood.
Factories tend to use 交代制, while convenience stores use シフト制.
I work in shifts at a factory.
I'm looking for a job with shift work.
Nurses often work in day and night shifts.
The employees work in rotating shifts.
Uses the loanword ローテーション (rotation). Common in workplaces to describe rotating shifts.
We rotate the night shifts.
This hospital has introduced a day/night shift system.
More explicit: 'a shift system of day shift and night shift'. 日勤 = day shift, 夜勤 = night shift.
I work on a rotating day and night shift system.
My current job is shift work.
Common expression meaning 'to be on a shift' or 'to work a shift'. Used when talking about one's schedule.
I'm on shift tomorrow.
Avoid directly translating 'working in shifts' as シフトで働いていること or similar noun phrases. Use 交代制 or シフト制 for the system, and 交代で働く or シフトで働く for the action.
Nurses work in shifts.
They introduced a shift system.