Salaryman is a term used in Japan to describe men who work in professional jobs and are expected to devote long hours to their company. The spelling of the word is phonetically written as /ˈsæl.ər.iˌmæn/ and consists of four syllables. The stress is on the second syllable, "lary," which is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by a consonant cluster of "l" and "r." The word "salaryman" has become a symbol of the intense work culture in Japan and the sacrifices that many professionals make in order to succeed in their careers.
A "salaryman" refers to a term widely used in Japan to describe a male office worker or employee who earns a fixed salary from a corporation or company. The term typically represents the archetype of a dedicated, white-collar worker, adhering to a rigorous work ethic and long working hours.
Salarymen are usually engaged in various professional roles, such as sales, marketing, finance, or management, and are often portrayed as individuals who prioritize their jobs and commit themselves wholeheartedly to their companies. They generally wear business attire, including formal suits, and are expected to follow strict professional etiquettes.
These individuals often have regular employment contracts, which offer stability and certain benefits, in exchange for their dedication and loyalty. The salaryman culture in Japan is rooted in the philosophy of collectivism and the importance given to harmonious teamwork within an organization.
The average salaryman lifestyle is characterized by prolonged working hours, intense pressure to meet work-related goals, and limited personal time. Their work often revolves around attending countless meetings, dealing with paperwork, and striving to achieve the company's objectives. This work-centered lifestyle may result in a significant focus on career advancement and limited focus on personal life, leading to the prevalence of a workaholic culture.
The term "salaryman" has become a societal symbol in Japan, representing the traditional corporate culture, business hierarchy, and the dedication to work that has been ingrained in the country for decades.
The word "salaryman" is derived from the combination of two English words: "salary" and "man".
"Salary" originated from the Latin word "salarium", which referred to the money given to soldiers to purchase salt. This was a common practice in ancient Rome, as salt was considered valuable. Over time, the term "salarium" evolved to mean a regular payment or reward given to individuals for their services.
The word "man" is a basic English term used to refer to an adult male, and it has been in use for centuries.
The term "salaryman" itself was coined in Japan during the early 20th century, influenced by the Western concept of paid employment and the English language. It refers to a corporate employee, typically a white-collar worker, working for a fixed salary or wage.