サービス

• Reading: サービス
• Romaji: saabisu
• Pronunciation: /saː.bi.sɯ/

Meaning

Service; complimentary offer. Customer service, or something given for free as a bonus or promotional gesture.

A loanword from English 'service' that also functions as a suru verb (サービスする). In Japanese, carries an additional meaning not found in English: something offered for free or at a discount (サービス品, complimentary item). Used broadly: カスタマーサービス (customer service), サービス業 (service industry), サービスする (to give a freebie/serve).

Examples

1. このレストランはサービスがとても良い。 This restaurant has really great service.
2. お店の人がデザートをサービスしてくれた。 The staff gave us a complimentary dessert.
3. サービス業で働くのは体力が必要だ。 Working in the service industry requires physical stamina.

Usage Guide

Context: business, restaurants, hospitality

Tone: friendly

Origin & History

From English 'service,' via Latin servitium (servitude). In Japanese, the meaning expanded beyond assistance to include the concept of giving something for free, reflecting Japanese hospitality culture.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal