チームワーク
chīmuwāku[t͡ɕiːmɯ̟β̞a̠ːkɯ̟]
The English phrase "teamwork" is translated into Japanese as チームワーク (chīmuwāku).
チームワーク is a noun used to describe the cooperative effort of a team. This katakana loanword is commonly used in sports, business and educational contexts to describe cooperative effort.
Meaning: cooperative effort of a team (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
This word is a loanword from English, composed of 'chīmu' (team) and 'wāku' (work).
Which one should you use?
While チームワーク refers specifically to the synergy of a team, the native Japanese word 協力 (kyōryoku) is used for the general act of cooperation or working together.
How do you pronounce it?
chīmuwāku
Did you know?
- In Japanese business settings, the concept of teamwork is often practiced through 根回し (nemawashi), the process of quietly consulting all stakeholders individually before a formal meeting takes place.
- In many Japanese sports settings, instead of praising 'teamwork', coaches may use the phrase 心を一つに (kokoro o hitotsu ni), which means 'to make one heart'.
- While チームワーク is understood, Japanese business culture often emphasizes 和 (wa), a concept of 'harmony' that implies a level of group cohesion often deeper than the English 'teamwork'.
Examples in context
- チームの勝利のためには、チームワークが不可欠である。For the team victory, teamwork is compulsory.This sentence illustrates that チームワーク is considered compulsory for a team victory.
- 私たちのチームワークは素晴らしい。Watashitachi no chīmuwāku wa subarashii.Our teamwork is wonderful.
- もっとチームワークを意識しましょう。Motto chīmuwāku o ishiki shimashō.Let's be more mindful of teamwork.
Example conversation
Two coworkers are discussing a recent project completion.
- 陽太 Yota今回のプロジェクトはチームワークが良かったですね。Konkai no purojekuto wa chīmuwāku ga yokatta desu ne.The teamwork was good for this project, wasn't it?
- 結衣 Yuiはい、陽太さんのサポートのおかげです。Hai, Yōta-san no sapōto no okage desu.Yes, it is thanks to your support, Yota.
- 陽太 Yota結衣さんがリーダーシップを発揮してくれたからですよ。Yui-san ga rīdāshippu o hakki shite kureta kara desu yo.It is because you showed great leadership, Yui.
- 結衣 Yuiそう言ってもらえると嬉しいです。Sō itte moraeru to ureshii desu.I am happy to hear you say that.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “teamwork” translations and entries チームワーク, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
