Translation and Meaning of: 掛け算 - kakezan

If you're learning Japanese or are curious about mathematics in the Japanese language, you've probably come across the word 掛け算[かけざん]. It is essential for those who want to master basic operations in the language, but it goes beyond that: it carries cultural nuances and a unique way of thinking about numbers. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and even tips for memorizing it for good. Here at Suki Nihongo, our detailed dictionary helps you uncover words like this with real examples and authentic contexts.

What does 掛け算 mean and how to use it?

掛け算 is the Japanese word for "multiplication." If you separate the kanji, 掛け (kake) relates to the idea of "hanging" or "applying," while 算 (zan) means "calculation." Together, they form the concept of multiplying numbers, as in 2×3=6. This is one of the four fundamental operations taught in Japanese schools from an early age, along with 足し算 [たしざん] (addition), 引き算 [ひきざん] (subtraction), and 割り算 [わりざん] (division).

In daily life, you might hear phrases like 「掛け算の表を覚える」(Memorizing the multiplication table) or 「この問題は掛け算で解ける」(This problem can be solved with multiplication). An interesting detail is that, although 掛け算 is the standard term, some Japanese people use the abbreviated version 乗算[じょうざん] in more formal or technical contexts, such as in advanced mathematics manuals.

Origin and curiosities about the word

The etymology of 掛け算 dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868), when calculation methods became popular in Japan. The kanji 掛け, used in verbs like 掛ける (kakeru), originally represented the action of "hanging" something but gained the abstract meaning of "applying" a mathematical operation. Meanwhile, 算 appears in various words related to calculations, such as 計算[けいさん] (calculation) and 算数[さんすう] (arithmetic).

A verified curiosity in Japanese textbooks is that the multiplication table (九九[くく]) in Japan is sung backwards in some regions. For example, while in Brazil we learn "7×8=56", the Japanese also memorize "8×7=56" in the same sequence. This method reinforces the understanding of the commutative property of multiplication and is a great exercise for those who want to practice the language.

Tips for memorizing and practicing

To reinforce 掛け算, an effective strategy is to associate it with practical situations. If you enjoy cooking, for instance, you can think of recipes that double or triple the ingredients: 「このレシピは材料を掛け算する必要がある」(This recipe requires multiplying the ingredients). Another tip is to use apps like Anki to create cards with everyday phrases, such as 「子供に掛け算を教える」(Teaching multiplication to children).

It's worth noting that the pronunciation "kakezan" is more common than reading the kanji in isolation. If you're just starting out, focus first on recognizing the word when you hear it in animes or dramas that involve school (like 「ドラゴン桜」). Gradually, you'll notice that 掛け算 is as frequent in Japanese as "times" is in Portuguese.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 乗算 (Jōzan) - Multiplication (a term generally used in academic and formal contexts)
• 掛算 (Kakuzan) - Multiplication (common term in everyday contexts)
• 積算 (Sekizan) - Multiplication (primarily used in mathematical contexts and calculations)