Translation and Meaning of: 一種 - ishu

If you've ever wondered how the Japanese say "a type" or "a kind" of something, the word 一種[いっしゅ] (isshu) is the answer. This article will show you not only the meaning and translation but also the origin, everyday usage, and even tips to memorize this essential term. Here at Suki Nihongo, you will also find practical examples to include in your Anki and boost your Japanese studies.

In addition to being a useful word for describing categories, 一種 has an interesting etymology and a pictogram that tells a story. Let's explore all of this, from how it appears in conversations to the reasons why students often confuse its use. Ready to discover why this little word is so versatile?

Origin and etymology of 一種

The word 一種 is composed of two kanji: 一 (ichi), which means "one," and 種 (shu), which represents "species," "type," or "seed." Together, they form the idea of "a variety" or "a specific type." Interestingly, the kanji 種 also appears in words like 種類[しゅるい] (shurui), which means "category," showing its connection to classification.

In ancient writing, the character 種 was associated with grains and seeds, something that spreads and diversifies. It's no wonder that today it carries this sense of "type" or "class." When you use 一種, you are borrowing a mental image of something that branches out from a common origin. Want an example? Imagine a garden with flowers of a single species — that's exactly the nuance that this word conveys.

How 一種 is used in everyday Japanese.

In everyday life, the Japanese use 一種 to talk about things that share characteristics without being identical. For example: 「この薬は一種の抗生物質です」 (Kono kusuri wa isshu no kōsei busshitsu desu) — "This medicine is a type of antibiotic." Do you see how the word helps to generalize without losing precision? It is common in technical explanations, product descriptions, and even in informal conversations.

Another interesting use is when 一種 appears to express that something is "almost" or "to some extent". Sentences like 「彼の態度は一種の反抗だ」 (Kare no taido wa isshu no hankō da) — "His attitude is a kind of rebellion" — show that the word can have a subjective tone. It's as if you were saying: "It's not exactly that, but it's close enough". This flexibility makes it one of the favorites in more nuanced discussions.

Tips for memorization and curiosities

An infallible way to fix 一種 is to associate it with the kanji 種, which resembles "seeds" — something that produces diversity. If you already know 種類 (shurui), think of it as a close relative. Another trick is to create flashcards with sentences like: 「これは一種の例外です」 (Kore wa isshu no reigai desu) — "This is a kind of exception". Repeating in real contexts helps to memorize.

Did you know that 一種 sometimes appears in the names of official categories? In Japan, you can find like 第一種免許 (dai-isshu menkyo), which refers to a specific class of driver's license. This detail shows how the word is embedded even in bureaucratic systems. So, are you ready to use 一種 like a native?

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 一つの種類 (Hitotsu no shurui) - A type, a specific category.
• 一つ (Hitotsu) - One (number), one unit.
• 一つのタイプ (Hitotsu no taipu) - A type, a specific modality.
• 一つのカテゴリー (Hitotsu no kategorii) - A category, a specific division.
• 一つのグループ (Hitotsu no gurūpu) - A group, a specific collectivity.
• 一つの仕様 (Hitotsu no shiyō) - A specification, a specific detail.
• 一つのクラス (Hitotsu no kurasu) - A class, a group of common characteristics.
• 一つの分類 (Hitotsu no bunrui) - A classification, a specific categorical system.