When you want to express the idea of doing something “on the side” in Japanese, there are several phrases and expressions you can use, depending on the context and level of formality. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to convey this concept, along with some useful tips and examples.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions:
When speaking in formal situations, such as business meetings or official settings, it would be appropriate to use the following phrases:
1. Yakushoku wo motsu (役職を持つ)
This expression literally translates to “to have a position” and can be used to explain that you have another job or responsibilities in addition to your main occupation. For example, you could say:
“私は翻訳者の役職を持っています。プロジェクトの仕事の傍らで英会話の教師をしています。”
(Watashi wa hon’yakusha no yakushoku wo motteimasu. Purojekuto no shigoto no katagawa de eikaiwa no kyōshi wo shiteimasu.)
“I have a position as a translator. I teach English on the side along with my project work.”
2. Yobi-shigoto (呼び仕事)
This term refers to additional work that is done alongside your main job and is also commonly used in formal contexts. You can use it to express that you have a part-time job or a secondary occupation. For instance:
“週末には、呼び仕事としてウェイターの仕事をしています。”
(Shūmatsu niwa, yobi-shigoto toshite weita no shigoto wo shiteimasu.)
“On weekends, I work as a waiter on the side.”
Informal Expressions:
If you want to express the idea of doing something “on the side” in a casual or informal setting, you can use the following phrases:
1. Urakagiri (裏切り)
This term is more colloquial and translates to “on the side” or “on the sly.” It implies doing something without others knowing or in addition to other responsibilities. For example:
“彼は学校の仕事の裏切り、バンド活動をしています。”
(Kare wa gakkō no shigoto no urakagiri, bando katsudō wo shiteimasu.)
“He plays in a band on the side, in addition to his school work.”
2. Hijō ni (非常に)
This expression can be used in a more casual manner to convey the idea of “extremely” or “on the side.” It emphasizes the extra or supplementary nature of the activity. For instance:
“彼女は本業の傍らで趣味の美術を非常にやっています。”
(Kanojo wa hongyō no katagawa de shumi no bijutsu wo hijō ni yatteimasu.)
“She does art as a hobby on the side, extremely”
Tips and Examples:
Tone and Politeness:
It’s important to note that the level of formality and politeness should match the situation and the relationship between the speakers. Using formal expressions in casual conversations might sound overly stiff, while using overly casual language in formal situations can be considered impolite. Adjust your choice of phrases accordingly.
Regional Variations:
Japanese language has some regional variations when it comes to expressions. However, when it comes to saying “on the side,” the phrases mentioned above are quite universal and can be understood throughout Japan. It is always advisable to stick to standard Japanese phrases if you are unsure about regional language variations.
Building Fluency:
To further enhance your understanding and fluency in expressing the idea of doing something “on the side” in Japanese, practice using these phrases in various contexts. Try constructing different sentences using these expressions to reinforce your knowledge and improve your natural usage of the language.
Remember, language learning is a continuous process, and using phrases correctly in the appropriate context will help you communicate effectively in Japanese.
