報 連 相(ほうれんそう)

ほうれんそう

noun

report-contact-consult (workplace norm)

1. report-contact-consult, communication basics in the workplace

An abbreviation of 報告(ほうこく) (report), 連絡(れんらく) (contact/inform), and 相談(そうだん) (consult). A fundamental workplace communication principle in Japan emphasizing that employees should proactively report progress, share relevant information, and consult superiors when problems arise.

報連相(ほうれんそう)を忘(わす)れないでください。

Please don't forget to report, contact, and consult.

新入(しんにゅう)社員(しゃいん)研修(けんしゅう)で報連相(ほうれんそう)の大切(たいせつ)さを学(まな)んだ。

I learned the importance of report-contact-consult during new employee training.

報連相(ほうれんそう)がしっかりしているチームは問題(もんだい)が起(お)きても素早(すばや)く対応(たいおう)できる。

A team that practices good report-contact-consult can respond quickly even when problems arise.

Etymology

A portmanteau of 報告(ほうこく) (report), 連絡(れんらく) (contact/inform), and 相談(そうだん) (consult). The abbreviation deliberately sounds like ほうれん草(そう) (spinach), making it a memorable mnemonic.

Usage

One of the most widely taught workplace communication concepts in Japan, introduced to nearly all new employees. It is considered a foundational skill for smooth teamwork and is frequently referenced in business books and training materials. Failure to practice 報連相(ほうれんそう) is a common criticism of junior employees.

Common collocations

報連相(ほうれんそう)を徹底(てってい)する: thoroughly practice report-contact-consult
報連相(ほうれんそう)が大事(だいじ): report-contact-consult is important
報連相(ほうれんそう)ができない: unable to properly report/contact/consult

Related Words

Related: 報告(ほうこく) (report)

Related: 連絡(れんらく) (contact, inform)

Related: 相談(そうだん) (consult)

Related: 報告(ほうこく)する (to report)

Related: 情報(じょうほう)共有(きょうゆう) (information sharing)

general

Added 2026.2.20 14:01 · Revised 2026.9.4 21:29

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