人手不足時代
人手不足時代では、企業は採用活動に力を入れなければならない。
In an era of labor shortage, companies must focus on recruitment.
A period characterized by a significant lack of available workers, leading to challenges in staffing and economic growth.
日本は少子高齢化により、人手不足時代に突入している。
Due to Japan's aging population and low birth rate, it has entered an era of labor shortage.
人手不足時代では、企業は外国人労働者の受け入れを拡大する必要がある。
In an era of labor shortage, companies need to expand the acceptance of foreign workers.
Often used in discussions about demographic changes, economic policies, and labor market trends.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Contextual Usage
This phrase is frequently used in discussions about Japan's economic challenges. Pair it with demographic terms like 高齢化社会 (aging society) or 政策 (policy) for natural usage.
Gold Rule
Avoid Literal Translation
Do not translate as 'era of shortage of people's hands.' The idiomatic meaning refers to labor/workforce, not literal hands.
Word Origin
Composed of 人手 (hitode, 'labor/workforce') + 不足 (busoku, 'shortage') + 時代 (jidai, 'era/period'). The term reflects Japan's post-1990s demographic shift toward an aging population and declining birthrate, leading to chronic labor shortages.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in news articles, policy discussions, and business reports. Often paired with terms like 高齢化 (aging population) or 少子化 (declining birthrate).