Gaining the confidence to quit your job is a significant step in anyone’s career journey. If you’re considering leaving your current job in Japan, it’s essential to have an understanding of how to communicate your decision appropriately. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover formal and informal ways to say “I quit my job” in Japanese, with tips, examples, and regional variations, focusing on the standard Tokyo dialect. Whether you are resigning from a professional position or informing friends or family, this guide will provide you with the necessary language skills for this important conversation.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Expressions
When seeking a formal way to announce your resignation, it’s crucial to use respectful language appropriate for professional situations. Here are several formal expressions you can use:
“Shitsurei shimasu ga, watashi wa tsugi no yotei tsuki de shitsugyou o oyobi sasemasete itadakimasu.”
(I apologize for the interruption, but I would like to inform you that I will resign in the near future.)
Remember to use polite language, such as “shitsurei shimasu ga” (I apologize for the interruption), to show respect before delivering the news. Below is a breakdown of this sentence:
- “Shitsurei shimasu ga” – A polite phrase meaning “I apologize for the interruption.”
- “Watashi wa” – “I” or “me.”
- “Tsugi no yotei tsuki de” – “In the near future.”
- “Shitsugyou o oyobi sasemasete itadakimasu” – “I will resign.”
2. Informal Expressions
If you’re leaving a more casual working environment or want to inform friends or family about your decision to quit, informal expressions can be used. They reflect a more relaxed tone while still expressing your intention to resign. Here’s an example:
“Mou sugu shigoto o yameru tsumori desu.”
(I intend to quit my job very soon.)
The phrase “mou sugu” (very soon) adds a sense of urgency to your decision. Keep in mind that the level of informality depends on your relationship with the person you’re speaking to. You can make the phrase more friendly by using a specific verb, like “yamete mairimasu” (I will stop working), when addressing people close to you or in an informal setting.
3. Additional Tips
Here are a few additional tips that will help you navigate the process of quitting your job while maintaining respect and professionalism:
- 1. Use honorific language: When discussing your resignation with someone of higher status, such as a supervisor or manager, it’s important to use honorific language to show respect.
- 2. Prepare a written resignation letter: Alongside verbally announcing your resignation, it is customary to provide a written resignation letter. Make sure to include the date, details of your resignation, and a brief expression of gratitude.
- 3. Be grateful and humble: Express your gratitude for the opportunities and experiences gained during your employment. Show humility even if you have had a challenging experience.
- 4. Discuss transition plans: Offer support during the transition period by discussing a plan to ensure a smooth handover of your responsibilities.
- 5. Practice your speech: Rehearse your resignation speech beforehand to ensure a confident and composed delivery.
4. Examples
To help you understand how to use the phrases mentioned earlier, here are a couple of examples:
- A formal example: Employee: Shitsurei shimasu ga, watashi wa tsugi no yotei tsuki de shitsugyou o oyobi sasemasete itadakimasu. Employer: Wakarimashita. Shitsugyou no mae ni juubun na juunbi o onegai shimasu. Employee: Hai, wakarimashita. Arigatou gozaimashita. Employer: Douzo otsukaresama deshita.
- An informal example: Employee: Mou sugu shigoto o yameru tsumori desu. Friend: Honto? Soitsu wa yorokobu koto deshou! Ganbatte ne! Employee: Arigatou! Ganbarimasu! Friend: Zettai daijoubu yo! Ima made otsukaresamadeshita.
Remember, the language you use to communicate your resignation should depend on the formality of your workplace and your relationship with the person you’re speaking with.
Now armed with these formal and informal expressions, as well as vital tips and examples, you can confidently approach the conversation of quitting your job in Japanese. Good luck with your onwards journey, and may your future endeavors be fulfilling and rewarding!
