Translation and Meaning of: 価格 - kakaku

The Japanese word 価格 (かかく, kakaku) is an essential term for those learning the language or interested in Japanese culture. Its main meaning is "price" or "monetary value," but it carries interesting nuances that go beyond simple translation. In this article, we will explore everything from the composition of the kanji to the everyday use of this expression, including memorization tips and cultural curiosities. If you want to understand how Japanese people talk about costs in different contexts, you've come to the right place.

The meaning and writing of 価格

The term 価格 is made up of two kanji: 価 (ka), which means "value" or "price," and 格 (kaku), which can be translated as "standard" or "status." Together, they create the idea of an established value, something with a defined price. This combination is common in words related to commercial transactions, such as 価格差 (kakakusa, price difference) or 価格帯 (kakakutai, price range).

It is worth noting that 価格 (kakaku) is more formal and is often used in commercial or economic contexts, such as in news about inflation or financial reports. In daily life, Japanese people may prefer simpler like 値段 (nedan), which also means "price" but sounds more colloquial. This difference in is important for those who want to sound natural when speaking Japanese.

How 価格 is used in practice

In shops and markets in Japan, you will see 価格 on product labels, especially in more traditional establishments or official documents. Phrases like 価格改定 (kakaku kaitei, price revision) or 価格競争 (kakaku kyousou, price competition) are common in the business world. The term frequently appears in discussions about the economy, such as when talking about 価格上昇 (kakaku joushou, price increase) or 価格安定 (kakaku antei, price stability).

An interesting aspect is that 価格 often carries a connotation of fair or official value. When a store s 特別価格 (tokubetsu kakaku, special price), it conveys the idea that it is a limited offer with a value below the standard. This nuance is different from simply using the word 値段, which would be more neutral. Understanding these subtleties helps to better comprehend marketing strategies in Japan.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An effective way to the meaning of 価格 is to associate the first kanji, 価, with other words that involve value, such as 価値 (kachi, value/worth). The second kanji, 格, appears in like 資格 (shikaku, qualification) and 性格 (seikaku, personality), always with the idea of standard or level. This connection between the radicals and their meanings can accelerate the learning of Japanese vocabulary.

Interestingly, 価格 is not an ancient word - it emerged during the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan was undergoing modernization and adopting more technical in areas such as economics. Before that, the Japanese mainly used 代金 (daikin) or 値段 (nedan) to refer to prices. This historical fact shows how the Japanese language has evolved to meet the needs of a transforming society.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 値段 (nedan) - Price of a specific item.
• 料金 (ryoukin) - Cost or fee for a service or use.
• 金額 (kingaku) - Amount of money, often used in financial contexts.