🇯🇵ap japanese review

勉強 (べんきょう)

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Verified for the 2026 exam

Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

勉強 (べんきょう) means 'study' or 'learning' in Japanese, often referring to the effort put into acquiring knowledge and skills. It encompasses not just the act of studying in a formal sense, like attending school or classes, but also self-directed learning and the commitment to personal development. Understanding 勉強 is essential in the context of building a career, as continuous learning and skill enhancement are crucial for professional growth and adaptation in a rapidly changing job market.

勉強 (べんきょう) cheat sheet for homework

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

勉強 is not limited to academic environments; it includes any form of learning that enhances personal or professional skills.
In many Japanese workplaces, continuous 勉強 is encouraged to adapt to new technologies and market demands.
Attending seminars, workshops, and training sessions are common ways for professionals to engage in 勉強 throughout their careers.
勉強 habits developed in school often carry over into professional life, impacting career advancement opportunities.
Employers in Japan highly value employees who demonstrate a commitment to 勉強, as it indicates motivation and a willingness to grow.

Review Questions

How does the concept of 勉強 influence career development in Japan?
- The concept of 勉強 greatly influences career development in Japan by emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and skill enhancement. Employees who actively engage in 勉強 are seen as more adaptable and motivated, which can lead to better job opportunities and promotions. In many organizations, there is a culture that encourages ongoing education through workshops, seminars, and training programs, making 勉強 a vital component of career success.
Discuss the relationship between 勉強 and specialization within a chosen career path.
- 勉強 is closely related to specialization as it involves focusing on specific areas of knowledge that are crucial for professional expertise. Individuals often pursue advanced studies or certifications in their field to deepen their understanding and skills. This commitment to targeted 勉強 not only enhances one's qualifications but also increases competitiveness in the job market, allowing individuals to stand out in their specialized career paths.
Evaluate how societal attitudes towards 勉強 affect workplace expectations and employee growth in Japan.
- Societal attitudes towards 勉強 significantly shape workplace expectations and employee growth in Japan. The culture places high value on education and continuous improvement, leading companies to expect their employees to engage in lifelong learning. This expectation fosters an environment where employees are encouraged to pursue further training and development, ultimately benefiting both individual career trajectories and overall organizational success. As such, the commitment to 勉強 is seen not just as a personal responsibility but as a collective ethos that drives professional advancement.