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人余り
hitoamari
labor surplus
この業界は人余りで、求人が少ない。
This industry has a labor surplus, so there are few job openings.
formal
A situation where there are more workers available than jobs or demand requires, leading to unemployment or underemployment.
経済の停滞により、多くの業界で人余りが深刻化している。
Due to economic stagnation, labor surpluses have become severe in many industries.
人余りの状態が続けば、失業率が上昇するだろう。
If the labor surplus continues, the unemployment rate will likely rise.
Often used in economic or labor market contexts. Contrasts with 人手不足 (labor shortage).
Business
informal
A person who is in excess of what is needed, such as an extra worker in a company.
会社は人余りを理由に、リストラを発表した。
The company announced layoffs, citing labor surplus as the reason.
Used when referring to individuals who are considered redundant in an organization.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguishing 人余り vs 人手不足
人余り (labor surplus) describes a situation where there are too many workers, while 人手不足 (labor shortage) describes a lack of workers. Remember: 余り = excess, 不足 = shortage. For example, a company may face 人余り (too many employees) but still have a 人手不足 (shortage of skilled workers) in a specific department.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Always consider the economic context when using 人余り. It is rarely used in isolation and typically appears in discussions about unemployment, economic downturns, or industry trends.
Word Origin
The word combines 人 (hito, 'person') and 余り (amari, 'surplus/excess'). 余り is derived from the verb 余る (amaru, 'to be left over, to remain'), which comes from Old Japanese *amaru (to overflow, to exceed). The compound 人余り emerged in the late 20th century as a term to describe economic conditions where labor supply exceeds demand.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in economic reports, labor market analyses, and business discussions. Avoid using in casual conversation unless discussing employment trends. The term carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation, as it implies economic inefficiency or hardship for workers.
Word Breakdown
人
person
root余り
surplus/excess
suffix和英辞典