1.
profit, gain
Financial gain from business activities; the difference between revenue and costs.
今年は利益が上がった。
Profits increased this year.
利益が上がる = profits rise
利益を追求する。
To pursue profit.
この事業は大きな利益を生んでいる。
This business is generating large profits.
利益を生む = to generate profit
2.
benefit, advantage
Something that is advantageous or good.
消費者の利益を守る。
To protect consumer interests.
環境保護は社会全体の利益になる。
Environmental protection benefits society as a whole.
双方の利益になるような合意を目指した。
We aimed for an agreement that would benefit both sides.
USAGE: 利益 is commonly used in business contexts for profit, and in broader contexts for benefits or interests.
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 利益を上げる (to make a profit)
- 利益を追求する (to pursue profit)
- 利益を守る (to protect interests)
- 純利益 (net profit)
- 営業利益 (operating profit)
- 公共の利益 (public interest)
CONTRAST:
- 損失 - loss
- 損害 - damage, loss