noun
lump sum; one-off payment
A single payment made at one time, as opposed to installments or recurring payments. Common in contexts like retirement allowances, settlements, or special grants.
退職時に一時金を受け取った。
I received a lump sum payment upon retirement.
保険の一時金で治療費をまかなった。
I covered the medical expenses with a one-off insurance payment.
noun
Specifically a bonus payment, often used in corporate settings for one-time special bonuses distinct from regular salary or seasonal bonuses.
会社は業績に応じて一時金を支給した。
The company paid a bonus based on performance.
退職金 is specifically a retirement allowance, while 一時金 is a broader term for any lump-sum payment, which may include retirement payments.
Compound of 一時 (one time, temporary) and 金 (money). The term straightforwardly describes a single, non-recurring monetary payment.