Translation and Meaning of: 利息 - risoku

Etymology and Meaning of the Word 「利息」

The expression 「利息」 (risoku) is composed of two kanji characters: 「利」 which can be translated as "benefit" or "advantage," and 「息」 which means "breath" or "respiration." Together, these characters form the idea of "gain obtained," specifically referring to the concept of "interest" in finance. In Japanese, as well as in many other languages, this term is primarily used to describe the additional amount paid for the use of borrowed money or the return on invested capital.

The word has its roots in the traditional economic system of Japan, where the concept of lending and gaining from it has existed for centuries. The use of the kanji 「利」 is directly connected to the ideogram that highlights gain or additional value, while 「息」, in the economic context, can be related to the idea of a "continuation" or "flow" of benefits. In the modern era, 「利息」 is a common word in financial and banking vocabulary.

Uso e Contexto de 「利息」

In the world of business and finance, 「利息」 is closely connected to concepts such as:

• "預金利息" (yokin risoku) - interest on deposits.
• 「貸出利息」 (kashidashi risoku) - interest on loans.
• 「固定利息」 (kotei risoku) - fixed interest.
• "変動利息" (hendou risoku) - variable interest.

As the years went by, and with the globalization of financial practices, this Japanese term has also been incorporated into international contexts, gaining an important place in contracts and economic agreements around the world. The concept of 「利息」, therefore, reflects both the traditional Japanese economic culture and contemporary international financial practices.

In summary, the word 「利息」 is a representation of the additional value that can be obtained from borrowed or invested capital, being essential for a complete understanding of the dynamics of the financial system, both in the local and global context. This expression encapsulates the essence of interest, one of the main drivers of modern economies.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 利益 (rieki) - Profit, financial gain; it often refers to the positive result obtained in a business.
• 利得 (ritoku) - Gain, profit, often used in broader contexts of financial benefit or advantage.
• 利益率 (rieki-ritsu) - Profit margin; it indicates the percentage of profit relative to total revenue.