非正規

• Reading: ひせいき
• Romaji: hiseiki
• Kanji breakdown: 非 (hi) — non-, un-; 正 (sei) — correct, proper; 規 (ki) — standard, regulation
• Pronunciation: /hi.seː.ki/

Meaning

Irregular; non-regular; typically refers to non-fulltime or non-permanent employment.

A prefix-style noun most commonly encountered in 非正規雇用 (irregular employment) or 非正規社員 (non-regular employee). Describes workers who are part-time, contract, temporary, or dispatched — as opposed to 正規 (regular/permanent) employees. A major topic in Japanese labour discussions, as non-regular workers often receive lower pay and fewer benefits.

Examples

1. 非正規雇用の増加が社会問題になっている。 The rise in irregular employment has become a social issue.
2. 彼女は非正規で働きながら資格の勉強をしている。 She's working non-regular hours while studying for a certification.
3. 非正規社員にも同じ待遇を求める声が高まっている。 There are growing calls for non-regular employees to receive the same treatment.

Usage Guide

Context: labour, economics, social issues, news

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 非 (hi, non-/un-) + 正規 (seiki, regular/formal: 正 'correct' + 規 'standard'). Literally 'non-regular,' a straightforward negation prefix creating the antonym of 正規.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal