In the fast-paced world of Japanese commerce, some actions are celebrated, while others are viewed with a cautious eye. One phrase that frequently surfaces in meeting rooms and office hallways is Saki-okuri (先送り). While its literal translation is simple, its implications in a Japanese work environment are deep and often carry a weight of responsibility—or the lack thereof.
- Romaji: Saki-okuri
- Kanji: 先送り (先 = Ahead/Future, 送り = Sending)
- English Equivalent: Postponing, putting off, kicking the can down the road, procrastination.
- Usage: Primarily used when a decision, problem, or task is delayed to a later date.
The Nuance of Saki-okuri
At its core, Saki-okuri means to defer something. Unlike a neutral scheduling change, however, Saki-okuri often implies that a difficult decision or an uncomfortable problem is being avoided. In Japanese business culture, where harmony (Wa) and consensus are paramount, the pressure to make the ‘perfect’ decision can sometimes lead to this state of paralysis.
Using this term can be a form of self-reflection or a subtle criticism of a team’s progress. If a manager says, “We shouldn’t Saki-okuri this issue,” they are warning against the dangers of letting a small problem grow into a large one by ignoring it today.
To avoid falling into the trap of unnecessary delays, many Japanese companies emphasize the rule of Horenso, which ensures constant communication and prevents tasks from being forgotten or deferred indefinitely.
Common Phrases and Usage
You will most commonly see this word paired with the verb suru (to do) or ni naru (to become/to be).
- Ketsudan o saki-okuri ni suru: To postpone a decision.
- Mondai o saki-okuri ni suru: To put off a problem.
- Saki-okuri wa yamemashou: Let’s stop postponing things.
Example Dialogue
In this scenario, two colleagues are discussing a project proposal that has been stalled for weeks.
Tanaka: Sato-san, regarding the new marketing budget, have we heard back from the director?
Sato: Not yet. It seems they decided to saki-okuri the final decision until the next quarter.
Tanaka: Again? If we keep doing that, we’ll lose our competitive edge. Doushiyou… (What should we do?)
While usually negative, in some niche contexts, Saki-okuri can be a strategic move. If the current environment is too volatile or information is insufficient, “intentional postponement” might save a company from a disastrous mistake. However, in these cases, professionals usually prefer the term Enki (延期 – formal postponement) to avoid the lazy or avoidant connotation of Saki-okuri.
Why It Matters in Japanese Business
Understanding Saki-okuri is essential for navigating the “unspoken” parts of Japanese office life. If you notice a project is being Saki-okuri, it might be a sign that there is hidden opposition or that the stakeholders are struggling to find a consensus. Recognizing this early allows you to address the underlying concerns rather than just pushing for a deadline that will continue to slip away.
In summary, while Saki-okuri is a common part of corporate life, mastering the art of moving past it is what defines a successful professional in Japan.
