損耗
sonmou
The English word attrition is translated into Japanese as 損耗 (sonmou).
損耗 refers to a gradual reduction in number.
Meaning: gradual reduction in number (noun)
Which one should you use?
減少 is a formal way to denote a general reduction or decrease, encompassing the concept of attrition. 消耗 translates to exhaustion or wear and tear, referring to attrition caused by the gradual loss of energy or resources over time.
How do you pronounce it?
sonmou
Did you know?
- In a business context, if you want to describe 'staff attrition' or 'turnover', using 損耗 might sound as if you are describing the attrition of inanimate tools or equipment rather than people.
- In Japanese military history, 損耗 is specifically used to describe the 'attrition' of troops in a war of endurance, where the goal is to outlast the enemy's capacity to replace losses.
- The character 耗 in 損耗 historically carries the connotation of 'to waste' or 'to spend', which is why it is used for the attrition of resources.
Examples in context
- 機械の部品が摩擦で すり減って しまった。The machine parts wore down due to friction.
- 長年の使用による損耗が激しい。Naganen no shiyō ni yoru sonmō ga hageshii.The attrition from years of use is severe.
- 部品の損耗が進んでいる。Buhin no sonmō ga susunde iru.The attrition of the parts is progressing.
Example conversation
Two people are discussing a historical military strategy.
- 蓮 Renこの作戦は損耗が大きすぎます。kono sakusen wa sonmou ga ookisugimasu.This strategy results in too much attrition.
- 結衣 Yui蓮さんはそう思いますか。Ren-san wa sou omoimasu ka.Do you think so, Ren?
- 蓮 Renはい、兵力の消耗が激しいです。hai, heiryoku no shoumo ga hageshii desu.Yes, the loss of manpower is severe.
- 結衣 Yui結衣も同意します。Yui mo doui shimasu.Yui agrees as well.
