Meaning and Usage
"共働き" (ともばたらき) specifically refers to a situation where both spouses in a household are working and earning income. It is commonly used in discussions about family economics, work-life balance, and social trends.
Common Contexts
This term often appears in conversations about financial stability, childcare, and the division of household responsibilities. It highlights the dual contribution to the family income and the challenges that come with balancing work and home life.
Collocations and Patterns
- 共働きの家庭 (dual-income family): Refers to families where both partners work.
- 共働きで忙しい (busy because both work): Used to explain a busy lifestyle due to both spouses working.
- 共働きの増加 (increase in dual-income households): Discusses social trends.
Register and Nuance
"共働き" is a neutral term used in both formal and informal contexts. It does not carry a positive or negative connotation by itself but is often part of discussions about modern family dynamics.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "共働き" with simply "働く" (to work) or misunderstand it as referring to coworkers rather than spouses. Remember, "共働き" specifically means both husband and wife working.