A vow by Japan’s new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, to dedicate herself to relentless effort has been selected as the nation’s most notable catchphrase for the year. The declaration, made just prior to her taking office, topped an annual list that seeks to capture the prevailing national mood.
The Prime Minister’s remarks, in which she pledged to “work, work, work, work, and work,” have sparked considerable discussion. They were followed by comments urging her political colleagues to follow a similarly strenuous path, including a statement that she would personally set aside the pursuit of work-life balance. These assertions landed in a nation already acutely familiar with the societal and health challenges linked to excessive working hours, drawing criticism from advocates for labor reform.
In response to the award, Takaichi clarified that her intention was not to glorify overwork but to express a deep personal commitment to her governmental duties. This clarification comes amid ongoing public scrutiny of her demanding schedule, which reportedly includes very limited sleep.
The selection committee’s shortlist featured other phrases reflective of key events and concerns over the past year, including historic political change and economic pressures. Takaichi is the fourth political figure to receive this particular linguistic distinction.
Separately, the Prime Minister recently employed unconventional rhetoric at an international economic forum, quoting a popular Japanese manga series in a direct appeal for foreign investment. The move highlights the economic challenges facing her administration as it seeks to stimulate growth in a period of contraction.
The annual phrase selection is derived from public nominations and curated lists published in a major Japanese yearbook on contemporary society.