Translation guide
The physical location or social environment where one works. Japanese distinguishes between the physical office/site, the company as an entity, and the social context of work.
Referring to the actual location where work is done.
My workplace is close to the station.
Workplace relationships are tough.
Literally 'work place'. Slightly more casual and concrete than 職場. Often used for workshops, studios, or manual labor sites.
His workplace is the garage.
Refers to the company or office where one is employed, often used in formal contexts or when stating one's place of employment.
Please tell me your place of work.
Specifically a workshop, factory floor, or place for manual/industrial work.
There are large machines in the workshop.
Referring to the employer or company, not the physical location.
The standard word for 'company'. Often used when talking about the organization rather than the physical site.
I'm going to be late for work (the company).
Can also refer to the company as one's workplace community, especially in phrases about workplace culture.
Emphasizing the social or interpersonal aspect of where one works.
Expressing the action of going to or being at one's workplace.
English 'workplace' is often used where Japanese would use 会社 (company), 仕事 (work/job), or simply omit the location. For example, 'workplace safety' is usually 労働安全 (labor safety) or 職場の安全, not a literal translation.
Ensure workplace safety
職場 is the most versatile and neutral for 'workplace'. 会社 specifically means 'company' and is used when the organization is emphasized. 仕事場 is more concrete and often implies a physical workspace like a studio or workshop.
I want to quit my job (the company).
職場の雰囲気がいい。
The workplace atmosphere is good.
I want to improve the workplace environment.
I don't have to go to the office tomorrow.
He goes to work at 9 every day.