Menu Icon
Menu Close icon

What is the meaning, etymology, and usage of "Posharu"? Some points to keep in mind in business situations.

This site introduces products through an affiliate program.
Woman depressed after project falls through

Have you ever heard the word "Posharu"? Have you ever used this word, especially in business situations? At first glance, it may not sound familiar, but "posharu" has a rich meaning used in certain situations.

In this article, we will explain the meaning and etymology of "Posharu," how it is used in business situations, paraphrased expressions, and even some cautions when using it. Deepen your knowledge of business Japanese and take your communication skills to the next level.

Goandup Picks Click here for recommended articles!

What does "posharu" mean?

Posharu" is Japanese slang for a situation in which plans or schedules are cancelled or things do not go as planned. It is mainly used in business situations, when a project is set back or a goal is not achieved. The nuance behind this word is that what was hoped for is no longer feasible, or that some obstacle has caused a plan to fall apart.

If you want to know more about ◆Business Japanese, check out the following articles!

Posharu" in English

If we restrict the meaning of "Posharu" to "cease" or "break," the following words can be used in English.

  • call off, abandoned, cancel
  • break break

Usage, example sentences, and etymology (origin) of "Posharu

Posharu" changes in the same way as other "~ru" verbs. It is mainly used when a schedule or plan that has been made cannot be carried out, or when a plan that is being carried out is cancelled.

Below is an example sentence showing a specific usage of "Posharu".

  • The plan fell through.This is used when a scheduled project or event is cancelled for some reason.
  • Depending on the weather, plans may get scrapped.This term is used to describe a situation in which a planned activity may not be carried out due to external factors, such as worsening weather conditions.
  • Under these circumstances, his plans would be dashed.: Used when a person's plans are unlikely to succeed because of the problems or obstacles he or she is currently facing.

Those who hear this word for the first time may be surprised to learn that it is part of the Japanese language. However, "posharu" is used in a variety of situations, including business situations.

The origin of the word "posharu" is said to come from the French word "chapeau. The word "chapeau" is reversed to "posha" and then to "posharu" as a verb.

The word chapeau, meaning "to take off one's hat," has turned from an act of respect to mean "to fail in one's plans" or "to give up. From this etymology, we can see that the word "chapeau" also includes the nuance of giving up something.

Can "Posharu" be used in business situations?

The word "posharu" can be used in business situations, but in doing so, consideration should be given to the situation and the relationship with the other party. The word is usually classified as slang and, although frequently used in everyday conversation, should be avoided in formal settings.

In a business context, "posharu" may be used when it is necessary to communicate a failure or interruption, such as when a plan or project is cancelled due to an unexpected obstacle. Especially among internal team members or close colleagues, this term can be used to share a situation in a relaxed atmosphere.

However, for supervisors, clients, or formal occasions, the use of "posh" should be avoided in favor of more formal expressions. While slang is appropriate for intimate relationships and casual contexts, its use should be carefully considered in business settings to maintain professionalism.

In short, "posharu" is a useful word in business, but its use depends on the situation in which it is used and how well the person you are speaking to understands it. If a plan or project is about to go awry, it is important to pay attention to how you choose to communicate it.

This article is also recommended!
▶︎ I want foreigners to know! Fun Usage of Japanese Slang | Goandup Picks

Japanese "Posharu" Synonyms and Paraphrases

Analogous and paraphrased expressions of "Posharu" include the following words. These expressions are useful words that can be used when plans and schedules have gone awry.

  • cease functioning
  • go bad
  • get lost
  • be ruined

An example sentence using these words is as follows

  • The plan was ruined.
  • Weather may crush our plans.
  • Under these circumstances, his plans would be scrapped.

These expressions, like "posharu," can be used when a plan or schedule has been frustrated. Especially in business situations, such expressions may be used to explain a situation when a project or transaction did not go as planned. However, it is important to consider the context and relationship with the other party when using it.

For those of you who want to further your studies at a Japanese language school

The Japanese language attracts attention from around the world for its rich expressiveness and profound culture. From movies, music, and literature to everyday conversation, learning Japanese is not only a way to acquire a new language, but also a gateway to a deeper cultural understanding and a broader perspective.

For those of you who want to study Japanese more seriously, enter higher education in Japan, or find a job in Japan, taking your Japanese language skills to the next level is the first step in turning your dreams into reality. There are approximately 700 Japanese language schools in Japan with various characteristics, but it is not easy to select the best school for you.

Therefore, we will do our best to help you choose the perfect Japanese language school to realize your goals and dreams! If you have any questions or concerns about Japanese language schools, please feel free to contact us using the inquiry form below.

We will provide you with the best support to meet your Japanese language learning goals. We hope that our support will make your Japanese language study more fulfilling and fruitful.

    Your Name*
    Last Name*
    gender*
    Date of Birth*
    (present) address*
    nationality*
    Phone number*
    Email Address*
    age*
    last educational background*
    Preferred Course*
    Desired Time of Admission*
    Visa Type*
    credentials
    Certificates (passport, ID, diploma, resume, work history: maximum total of 5)*
    Please select the points that are important to you when choosing a Japanese language school.
    (Multiple selections allowed)*
    What to ask at a free consultation at a Japanese language school
    (optional)
    The personal information you provide will be used for the "Privacy Policy." The information will be properly managed in accordance with the description in Section 3.1.1. In addition, we may send informational e-mails, including advertisements, to the e-mail address you provide.

    summary

    In this article, we have explained in detail the meaning and etymology of the word "posharu," its appropriate usage in business situations, and paraphrased expressions. It is important to deepen your understanding of "Posharu" as business Japanese and to consider its scope of application and context when using it in everyday communication and business conversation. By using this word, you will be able to appropriately and effectively express situations when a project or plan does not go as planned.


  • We, "Goandup", will continue to promote the charm of Japan to the world.

  • If you found this article useful or enjoyable in any way, we would appreciate your support to fund our operations.

  • We would appreciate donations of any amount via the PayPal link below.
    ▶️ paypal.me/goandup


  • Related Articles

    Goandup Picks for Expats > Japanese Language Study > Business Japanese > What is the meaning, etymology, and usage of "Posharu"? Some points to keep in mind in business situations.