Meaning and Usage
The word 出世 (しゅっせ) primarily refers to achieving success in one's career, often implying promotion or rising to a high social status. It is commonly used in business contexts but can also refer to general social advancement.
Nuances
Using 出世 often implies not just any job change but a significant step up, such as a promotion or gaining recognition. It can carry a positive connotation of achievement but sometimes also suggests ambition or social climbing.
Common Collocations
- 出世する: to get promoted or succeed in career
- 出世街道 (しゅっせかいどう): the path to success or promotion
- 出世頭 (しゅっせがしら): the person who is the most successful or promoted earliest in a group
Register and Usage Notes
出世 is generally neutral to polite and used in formal and informal contexts. It is often discussed in workplace conversations or when talking about someone's career path.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 出世 with simply "going out" or "leaving the company" because of the kanji 出. Remember that 出世 specifically relates to career success or promotion, not just leaving or exiting.