Translation and Meaning of: 絶滅 - zetsumetsu

The Japanese word 絶滅[ぜつめつ] is a term that carries significant weight both in vocabulary and in the cultural context of Japan. If you are looking to understand its meaning, origin, or how to use it correctly, this article will explore all of that clearly and directly. Furthermore, we will see how this word is perceived in everyday life, its frequency of use, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently.

Extinction [ぜつめつ] is often associated with themes such as ecology, biology, and even philosophical discussions about finitude. Whether for Japanese language students or those curious about the language, understanding this word goes beyond simple translation. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information so you can master not just the meaning, but also the context behind each term.

Meaning and Translation of 絶滅 [ぜつめつ]

Extinction is translated into Portuguese as "extinção". The term is used to describe the complete disappearance of a species, idea, or even a phenomenon. In the biological context, it is often used in discussions about animals or plants that have ceased to exist, such as dinosaurs or the dodo.

It is worth noting that 絶滅 is not limited to the natural world. In the Japanese language, it can be used metaphorically to talk about traditions, cultures, or even technologies that have fallen into disuse. For example, it is common to hear expressions like "絶滅危惧種" (endangered species) or "絶滅の危機" (extinction crisis) in news and debates.

Origin and Composition of Kanji

The word 絶滅 is composed of two kanjis: 絶 (Zetsu) and 滅 (Metsu). The first, 絶, means "to cut," "to interrupt," or "to cease," while 滅 carries the meaning of "destruction" or "ruin." Together, they form a term that literally means "to cease by destruction," which perfectly reflects the concept of extinction.

It's interesting to note that both kanjis are often used in other words related to end or disappearance. For example, 絶望 (despair) and 滅亡 (fall, collapse) share this same semantic root. This pattern helps to understand how the Japanese build complex from simpler ideograms.

Cultural Use and Social Context

In Japan, 絶滅 is a word that frequently appears in discussions about environmental conservation. The country has a long history of awareness regarding endangered species, especially due to cases such as that of the Japanese wolf (ニホンオオカミ), declared extinct in the early 20th century. This context makes the term carry a significant emotional weight.

Moreover, 絶滅 is also used in media such as animes and mangas, often in plots that involve dystopian futures or existential crises. Series like "Attack on Titan" and "Neon Genesis Evangelion" explore themes of human extinction, reinforcing how the word is rooted in the Japanese popular imagination.

Tips for Memorizing 絶滅[ぜつめつ]

An effective way to this word is to associate it with striking images or concepts. For example, thinking of an extinct animal like the saber-toothed tiger can help reinforce the meaning of 絶滅. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like "恐竜は絶滅した" (Dinosaurs went extinct) to practice using it in context.

Another strategy is to break down the kanji. ing that 絶 relates to "to interrupt" and 滅 to "destruction" can make it easier to understand the term as a whole. Many students find it helpful to write the word several times while pronouncing "zetsumetsu" out loud, reinforcing the connection between sound and meaning.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 滅亡 (Metsubō) - Total destruction or annihilation of an entity or civilization.
• 消滅 (Shōmetsu) - Extinction or disappearance, usually in a broader context.
• 終焉 (Shūen) - The end or conclusion of something, often used in a context of the end of life or era.
• 消失 (Shōshitsu) - Disappearance, an act of vanishing or ceasing to exist, which may be temporary.
• 消滅化 (Shōmetsuka) - Transformation into extinction, a process that leads to complete annihilation.
• 滅亡化 (Metsubōka) - Process of becoming destroyed or undergoing total annihilation.