Translation and Meaning of: 定義 - teigi

The Japanese word 定義 (ていぎ, teigi) is an essential term for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. It frequently appears in academic, technical, and even everyday contexts, especially in discussions that require conceptual clarity. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in the Japanese language, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

If you have ever wondered what 定義 means or how to use it correctly in sentences, this guide will help. From its composition in kanji to practical examples, we will understand why this word is so relevant and how it fits into everyday and professional communication in Japan.

Meaning and origin of 定義

定義 (teigi) means "definition" or "delimitation". It is composed of the kanjis 定 (tei), which represents "to determine" or "to establish", and 義 (gi), which carries the sense of "meaning" or "principle". Together, these characters form a word that describes the act of precisely defining something, whether it be an abstract concept or a concrete rule.

The origin of 定義 dates back to classical Chinese, where the kanji were already used in similar contexts. In Japan, it was incorporated into academic and legal vocabulary, gaining prominence during the country's modernization period in the 19th century. Today, it is widely used in manuals, contracts, and technical discussions.

Everyday and cultural use of 定義

In Japan, 定義 is a common word in formal environments, such as schools, companies, and official documents. For example, in scientific discussions, it appears to establish the parameters of a study: "この研究の定義は何ですか？" (What is the definition of this research?). Its presence reinforces the importance that Japanese culture places on clarity and organization.

Outside of the professional environment, 定義 also appears in everyday conversations when someone needs to explain a term or idea with precision. However, in informal situations, the Japanese may opt for simpler expressions, such as "意味" (meaning) or "説明" (explanation), depending on the context.

Tips for memorizing 定義

An effective way to 定義 is to associate its kanji with practical situations. The character 定 (tei) appears in words like 定番 (teiban, "classic" or "standard"), while 義 (gi) is found in 義務 (gimu, "duty"). Thinking about these examples helps to solidify the meaning of each component and, consequently, of the complete word.

Another tip is to practice with real phrases, such as "この言葉の定義を教えてください" (Please explain the definition of this word). Repeating this type of construction in various contexts consolidates learning and facilitates the natural use of 定義 in spoken and written Japanese.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 定義 (Teigi) - Definition
• 定義書 (Teigisho) - Definition document
• 定義文 (Teigibun) - Definition sentence
• 定義語 (Teigigo) - Word of definition
• 定義事項 (Teigijikou) - Definition items
• 定義条項 (Teigijoukou) - Definition clauses
• 定義規定 (Teigikitei) - Definition regulations
• 定義定義 (Teigi Teigi) - Definition of definition
• 定義定義書 (Teigi Teigisho) - Definition document of the definition
• 定義定義文 (Teigi Teigibun) - Definition sentence of the definition
• 定義定義語 (Teigi Teigigo) - Word of definition of the definition
• 定義定義事項 (Teigi Teigijikou) - Definition items of the definition
• 定義定義条項 (Teigi Teigijoukou) - Definition clauses of the definition
• 定義定義規定 (Teigi Teigikitei) - Regulations for the definition of the definition