Translation and Meaning of: 伝記 - denki

The Japanese word 伝記 (でんき) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries interesting nuances for those learning the language. If you've ever wondered about its meaning, origin, or how to use it correctly in sentences, this article will clarify those questions. Additionally, we will explore how this word is perceived in Japan, from its everyday usage to cultural curiosities that can aid in memorization.

In the Suki Nihongo dictionary, 伝記 is defined as "biography" or "historical record of a life." But is it used in the same way as in Portuguese? Or are there subtle differences in the Japanese context? Let's find out together by analyzing everything from the composition of the kanjis to practical usage examples.

Meaning and composition of 伝記

The word 伝記 (でんき) is made up of two kanji: 伝 (でん), which means "to transmit" or "to on," and 記 (き), which refers to "record" or "annotation." Together, they create the concept of a transmitted record, which makes perfect sense when we think about biographies. This logical composition greatly aids in memorization, as it directly connects the written form with the meaning.

It is worth noting that 伝記 is specifically used for written biographies, unlike documentaries or biographical films. In Japan, it frequently appears in libraries, bookstores, and academic contexts. The pronunciation でんき can confuse beginners, as it is identical to the word for "electricity" (電気), but the context always makes it clear which is which.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In the Japanese context, 伝記 (denki) carries a more formal and literary weight than in some Western languages. While in the West, celebrity biographies are common, in Japan they often focus on historical figures, successful entrepreneurs, or traditional personalities. This aspect reflects cultural values such as respect for history and iration for lasting achievements.

Interestingly, research shows that biographies of entrepreneurs are particularly popular among young professionals in Japan. Many see these works not only as historical records but also as manuals of strategy and perseverance. This practical approach helps explain why 伝記 remains relevant even in the digital age.

Tips for using 伝記 correctly

To use 伝記 properly, keep in mind that it always refers to written works. If you want to talk about a biographical film, for example, it would be better to use 伝記映画 (でんきえいが). In everyday conversations, Japanese people often simplify it to バイオグラフィー (ba-i-o-gu-ra-fi-), a loanword from English that sounds less formal.

A valuable tip is to pay attention to the kanjis when writing. As mentioned, confusing 伝記 with 電気 (electricity) in writing can lead to embarrassing situations. An effective memorization technique is to associate 伝 with the verb 伝える (to transmit), ing that biographies transmit life stories throughout the ages.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 伝記 (Denki) - Biography, of a person's life.
• 伝記物 (Denki-butsu) - Biographical work, usually in narrative format.
• 伝記小説 (Denki shōsetsu) - Biographical romance, a work of fiction based on the life of a real person.
• 伝記映画 (Denki eiga) - Biographical film, a film that portrays the life of a person.
• 伝記ドラマ (Denki dorama) - Biographical drama series, a drama series based on a person's life.
• 伝記漫画 (Denki manga) - Biographical manga, a comic that tells the life of a person.
• 伝記詩 (Denki shi) - Biographical poetry, a poem that portrays a person's life.
• 伝記随筆 (Denki zuihitsu) - Biographical writing, an essay that contemplates the life of a person.
• 伝記的 (Denki-teki) - Regarding biographies, biographical character.
• 伝記的人物 (Denki-teki jinbutsu) - Biographical character, historical or real figure that is the focus of a biography.
• 伝記的事実 (Denki-teki jijitsu) - Biographical facts, real information about a person's life.
• 伝記的描写 (Denki-teki byōsha) - Biographical description, descriptive portrait of a person's life.
• 伝記的解説 (Denki-teki kaisetsu) - Biographical explanation, commentary, or analysis about a person's life.
• 伝記的研究 (Denki-teki kenkyū) - Biographical study, research on a person's life.
• 伝記的価値 (Denki-teki kachi) - Biographical value, importance or worth of a biography.
• 伝記的意義 (Denki-teki igi) - Biographical meaning, relevance or significance of a life told in biography.
• 伝記的背景 (Denki-teki haikei) - Biographical context, the scenario or environment in which a person's life took place.
• 伝記的特徴 (Denki-teki tokuchō) - Biographical characteristics, distinctive traits of a person's life.
• 伝記的事件 (Denki-teki jiken) - Biographical events, significant incidents in a person's life.
• 伝記的な (Denki-teki na) - Of a biographical nature, relating to biographies.