Translation guide
The English word "manpower" refers to the number of people available for work or a specific task. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various terms depending on context, such as workforce, human resources, or labor force. Direct translation is often unnatural; instead, choose the term that fits the situation.
Referring to the total number of people available to work, especially in a company, project, or country.
The most common and natural way to say 'manpower' in the sense of 'hands' or 'people to do the work'. Used in everyday conversation and business.
このプロジェクトには人手が足りない。
We don't have enough manpower for this project.
人手を増やす必要がある。
We need to increase manpower.
Literally 'labor power'. More formal and often used in economic or statistical contexts, like 'labor force'.
日本の労働力人口は減少している。
Japan's manpower (labor force) is declining.
Refers to personnel or staff numbers. Often used in official or business contexts when discussing headcount.
人員削減が発表された。
Manpower cuts were announced.
Direct loanword from English. Used in some business contexts, but sounds like jargon and is less natural than 人手.
マンパワーが不足している。
We are short on manpower.
Referring to the department or function that manages employees, hiring, etc.
Means 'human resources' or 'personnel'. Used for the HR department or matters related to staffing.
人事部に問い合わせてください。
Please contact the manpower (HR) department.
Referring to the number of soldiers or military personnel available.
Means 'military strength' or 'troop strength'. The standard term for military manpower.
敵の兵力は我々を上回っている。
The enemy's manpower exceeds ours.
Means 'fighting strength' or 'combat power', which includes manpower but also equipment, morale, etc.
Directly translating 'manpower' as 男力 or 人力 is incorrect. 人力 means 'human power' as in physical strength (e.g., rickshaw), not workforce.
Literal translation of 'human resources'. Used in academic or management theory, but not in everyday conversation.
人的資源の管理は重要だ。
Management of manpower (human resources) is important.
戦力の増強が急務だ。
Increasing manpower (combat strength) is urgent.