1.
livelihood, occupation, means of living
The work or trade by which a person earns their living. Carries a nuance of traditional or long-established work, often implying a humble or hands-on occupation rather than a corporate job.
農業を生業としている。
I make my living through farming.
漁師を生業とする家庭で育った。
I grew up in a household that made its living from fishing.
先祖代々、この土地で米作りを生業としてきた。
For generations, our ancestors have made their living growing rice on this land.
USAGE:
Used with を～とする (to make something one's livelihood). This word has a somewhat literary or dignified tone and often implies traditional, manual, or artisanal work rather than modern office jobs. It is frequently used in contexts about rural life, traditional crafts, and historical occupations.
RELATED WORDS:
- 職業: occupation (neutral, formal term)
- 生計: livelihood (focuses on the financial aspect)
- 仕事: work, job (everyday term)
GRAMMAR:
- ～を生業とする: to make ~ one's livelihood
- ～を生業にする: to make ~ one's livelihood (slightly more casual)
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 農業を生業とする: to make a living from farming
- 生業を立てる: to establish a livelihood
- 生業を営む: to carry on a livelihood