Translation and Meaning of: 派遣 - haken

If you are studying Japanese or have an interest in Japanese culture, you may have come across the word 派遣 (はけん). It frequently appears in professional contexts and even in discussions about the Japanese job market. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and uses of this word, as well as understand how it is perceived in everyday life in Japan. If you want to truly learn Japanese, Suki Nihongo is the best dictionary to help you on this journey.

The term 派遣 (はけん) means "dispatch" or "sending out," often used in the context of dispatching workers or employees.

The word 派遣 (はけん) can be translated as "dispatch" or "sending," but its most common meaning is related to temporary or outsourced work. In Japan, it is widely used to refer to employees hired through temporary employment agencies, known as "haken shain" (派遣社員). These workers are not hired permanently by the companies where they work but are placed through contracts mediated by these agencies.

The use of 派遣 reflects an important reality in the Japanese job market, where the flexibilization of labor relations has become more common in recent decades. If you have heard of "precarization of work," this term is directly related to this system.

Origin and cultural use of 派遣

The word 派遣 originates from the verb 派遣する (はけんする), which means "to dispatch" or "to send someone to carry out a task." It gained prominence in Japanese corporate vocabulary starting in the 1980s, when companies began to adopt more flexible hiring policies. Over time, the term has become established as part of business jargon, especially in sectors that require temporary labor.

Culturally, the work 派遣 is viewed with a certain ambiguity. On one hand, it offers flexibility for those seeking quick opportunities or who do not want long-term employment ties. On the other hand, many criticisms arise due to the lack of stability and benefits compared to traditional jobs. This dualism means that the word carries both practical aspects and social debates.

How to memorize 派遣 (はけん)?

An effective way to reinforce this word is to associate it with its everyday use in Japan. If you have ever watched Japanese dramas or news reports, you have probably heard of "haken shain" (派遣社員). This expression is so common that it can serve as a mental trigger to the meaning of 派遣 whenever it appears in texts or conversations.

Another tip is to observe the kanjis that make up the word: 派 (ha) can refer to "group" or "faction," while 遣 (ken) is related to "send." Together, they reinforce the idea of "sending personnel," which makes it easier to understand the term. This decomposition is useful for those who are already familiar with the radicals of Japanese writing.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 派遣 (haken) - Sending, designation (especially in the context of temporary or outsourced work)