1.
ice age, glacial period
A geological period characterized by widespread glaciation and cold temperatures. Also used figuratively in Japanese to describe an extremely difficult period for job seekers, known as the 'employment ice age.'
地球は過去に何度も氷河期を経験している。
The Earth has experienced multiple ice ages in the past.
就職氷河期世代は厳しい雇用環境の中で社会に出た。
The employment ice age generation entered society amid harsh employment conditions.
氷河期には海面が大幅に低下し、陸地が広がっていた。
During the ice age, sea levels dropped significantly and land areas expanded.
USAGE:
While the literal geological meaning exists, the figurative use 就職氷河期 (employment ice age) is extremely common and culturally significant in Japan. It refers to the severe job market during the economic stagnation from the mid-1990s to early 2000s. The generation that graduated during this period is called the 氷河期世代 (ice age generation), and their employment difficulties remain a social issue.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 就職氷河期: employment ice age
- 氷河期世代: ice age generation
- 氷河期に入る: to enter an ice age
- 最後の氷河期: the last ice age