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年功序列制度
ねんこうじょれつせいど
seniority-based promotion system
日本では年功序列制度がかつて一般的だった。
In Japan, the seniority-based promotion system was once common.
Business
formal
A corporate employment system where salary and promotion are primarily determined by length of service rather than performance.
年功序列制度の下では、勤続年数が長いほど昇進しやすい。
Under the seniority-based system, those with longer tenure are more likely to be promoted.
Common in Japanese companies until the late 20th century, now declining due to globalization and performance-based evaluations.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Cultural Context
This system prioritizes group harmony over individual achievement. Younger employees may wait years for promotions despite high performance.
Gold Rule
Key Feature
Promotions and raises are tied to age and tenure, not merit alone.
Word Origin
Composed of 年功 (nenkō, 'seniority') + 序列 (joretsu, 'ranking') + 制度 (seido, 'system'). The term reflects Japan's post-war corporate culture emphasizing loyalty and long-term employment.
Usage Notes
Criticized for reducing workplace dynamism but valued for fostering stability and employee loyalty. Still influential in some traditional industries.
Word Breakdown
年
year
root功
merit/service
root序列
ranking/order
root制度
system
root和英辞典