Translation and Meaning of: 彫刻 - choukoku

The Japanese word 彫刻 [ちょうこく] may seem complex at first glance, but its meaning is more accessible than many imagine. If you've ever wondered what this expression represents, how it's used in everyday Japanese, or even how to memorize it, this article will clarify those doubts. We will explore everything from its literal translation to cultural curiosities surrounding the term, all in a simple and straightforward manner.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 彫刻 is defined as "sculpture" or "carving," but its use goes beyond the artistic sense. It appears in various contexts, from discussions about traditional art to descriptions of decorative objects. If you are a Japanese language student or just an enthusiast of the country's culture, understanding this word can enrich your vocabulary and your perception of how the Japanese view three-dimensional art.

Meaning and usage of 彫刻 in modern Japanese

The term 彫刻 consists of two kanji: 彫 (to sculpt, to engrave) and 刻 (to carve, to mark). Together, they form a word that describes the act of creating three-dimensional shapes from materials such as wood, stone, or metal. In contemporary Japan, it is used both to refer to works of art and to decorative or religious objects.

Unlike words like 像 (zō, statue), which specifically refers to a figurative representation, 彫刻 has a broader meaning. It can describe anything from an abstract sculpture in a museum to carved details in ancient temples. In everyday conversations, it is more common to hear it in artistic or academic contexts than in informal situations.

The cultural importance of 彫刻 in Japan

The Japanese sculptural tradition has deep roots, with examples dating back to the Jōmon period (14,000-300 B.C.). Clay figurines called dogū are some of the earliest examples of 彫刻 in the archipelago. Over time, the technique evolved to include impressive Buddhist works, such as the statues of Nara, and delicate netsuke sculptures during the Edo period.

Today, 彫刻 remains a significant part of Japanese culture, whether through the preservation of historical works or contemporary production. Artists like Isamu Noguchi and Yayoi Kusama have brought Japanese sculpture to the international stage, blending traditional techniques with modern visions. For those visiting Japan, it is impossible not to notice the striking presence of these works in temples, museums, and even public spaces.

Tips for memorizing and using 彫刻 correctly

An effective way to this word is to associate its kanjis with the actions they represent. The character 彫 shows a "page" (羽) being "carved" (周), while 刻 depicts a "blade" (刂) marking "time" (亥). Visualizing these elements can help understand why the word means "to sculpt" or "to engrave."

Regarding pronunciation, ちょうこく follows the on'yomi pattern (Chinese reading), common in more formal . A practical tip is to that ちょう appears in other words related to "long" or "superior" (like 長い - nagai), while こく refers to "engraving" or "moment" (as in 時刻 - jikoku, time). This sonic association can make memorization easier.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 彫像 (Chōzō) - Sculpted statue.
• 彫刻品 (Chōkoku-hin) - Sculpted object.
• 彫刻物 (Chōkoku-butsu) - Sculpture work.
• 彫刻作品 (Chōkoku-sakuhin) - Sculpture work.
• 彫刻像 (Chōkoku-zō) - Sculpted statue (specifically).
• 彫刻刀 (Chōkoku-tō) - Sculpture knife.
• 彫刻技法 (Chōkoku-gihō) - Sculpture technique.
• 彫刻家 (Chōkoku-ka) - Sculptor.
• 彫刻美術 (Chōkoku-bijutsu) - Sculpture art.
• 彫刻品展示 (Chōkoku-hin tenji) - Display of sculpted objects.
• 彫刻品制作 (Chōkoku-hin seisaku) - Production of sculpted objects.
• 彫刻品販売 (Chōkoku-hin hanbai) - Sale of sculpted objects.
• 彫刻品修復 (Chōkoku-hin shūfuku) - Restoration of sculpted objects.
• 彫刻品修理 (Chōkoku-hin shūri) - Repair of sculpted objects.
• 彫刻品鑑賞 (Chōkoku-hin kanshō) - Appreciation of sculpted objects.
• 彫刻品展覧会 (Chōkoku-hin tenrankai) - Exhibition of sculpted objects.