オフィス — meaning in English: office

Usage

Native speakers use オフィス (ofisu) in various professional settings, such as during conversations about work environments or when discussing job responsibilities. For example, you might hear someone say, '今日はオフィスに行かなきゃ' (I have to go to the office today) when talking about their daily tasks.

Synonyms & nuances

A similar word is 事務所 (jimusho), which refers specifically to an office for administrative tasks or legal work. You would choose オフィス when speaking about a corporate or commercial environment, while 事務所 would be more appropriate for discussing a lawyer's or accountant's office.

Culture

The word オフィス has its roots in the English word 'office,' influenced by the increasing globalization and Westernization of Japan during the Meiji Restoration. It reflects modern work culture in Japan, where office environments are often characterized by their unique blend of traditional hierarchy and contemporary business practices. Interestingly, the concept of an office as a distinct workspace has evolved, with many companies now embracing remote work and flexible office layouts.

FAQ