Translation and Meaning of: 理想 - risou

Etymology and Definition of 「理想」

The Japanese word 「理想」, read as "risou", is composed of two kanji characters that carry their own meanings. The first kanji 「理」 (ri) refers to "reason" or "logic", suggesting order and organization. The second kanji 「想」 (sou) is associated with "thought" or "imagination". Together, they form the idea of "ideal" or "something conceived as perfect". Thus, the expression presents a concept of a state of being or condition that we aspire to as perfect or desirable.

Origin and Contexts of Use

The origin of the word 「理想」 can be traced back to the fusion of philosophical concepts that value logic and idealism. Historically, the word is used to designate philosophical, aesthetic, or moral ideals, something aspired to, but often considered beyond immediate reach. In Japan, as in many other places, the term "risou" may be associated with standards of beauty, models of behavior, or life goals that are considered perfect or desirable.

Variations and Modern Use

In everyday use, 「理想」 can be common in various expressions that discuss personal goals, career aspirations, and even desired characteristics in a partner, as in phrases that address the "ideal partner" 「理想のパートナー」 (risou no paatonaa). The word is often used in debates and discussions about how we want to shape our lives or societies in a way that reflects our ideals.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 理念 (rinen) - Concept, ideology
• 理想像 (risōzō) - Ideal image, representation of an ideal
• 理念像 (rineizō) - Image of the concept, representation of an ideology
• 理念思想 (rinenshiso) - Conceptual thinking, abstract ideology
• 理念観 (rinenkan) - Vision or perspective of the concept
• 理想観 (risōkan) - Ideal vision, perspective of the ideal
• 理想思想 (risōshisō) - Idealist thought, philosophy of the ideal
• 理想的 (risōteki) - Ideal, perfect, according to the ideal
• 理想主義 (risōshugi) - Idealism, philosophy of idealism
• 理想化 (risōka) - Idealization, the process of making something appear ideal
• 理想世界 (risōsekai) - Ideal world, a vision of a perfect world
• 理想郷 (risōkyō) - Ideal land, perfect place in a utopian context
• 理想観念 (risōkannen) - Ideal idea, concept of an ideal
• 理念主義 (rinen shugi) - Principle of the concept, an ideology that is based on concepts.
• 理念世界 (rinen sekai) - Conceptual world, the reality of a concept
• 理念郷 (rinen kyō) - Conceptual land, a place that represents an ideology

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