Translation and Meaning of: 削除 - sakujyo

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 削除 (さくじょ, sakujo). It frequently appears in digital, bureaucratic, and even everyday contexts, but its meaning goes beyond a simple translation. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is used by Japanese people, and what details make it interesting for learners.

In addition to understanding the basics of 削除, we will explore its origin, practical examples, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. If you've ever used an application or system in Japanese, you have likely seen this word in settings menus or important notifications. Let's uncover its uses and cultural nuances.

The meaning and uses of 削除

削除 (sakujo) means, in direct translation, "deletion" or "removal". It is a term widely used in digital environments, such as when deleting files, messages, or data from systems. If you have ever canceled an on a Japanese online service, it is very likely that you clicked on a button with this word.

Outside the digital world, 削除 also appears in istrative contexts, such as in the removal of records or document review. The word carries a formal tone, being more common in bureaucratic or technical situations than in casual conversations. In everyday life, Japanese people may choose simpler verbs, such as 消す (kesu, "to erase"), depending on the context.

The origin and writing of 削除

The word 削除 is composed of two kanji: 削 (saku), which means "to scrape" or "to reduce," and 除 (jo), which conveys the idea of "to remove" or "to eliminate." Together, they reinforce the sense of completely erasing something. This combination is not random—it reflects the precision of Japanese in creating that clearly indicate their function.

It's worth noting that 削除 is a word of Chinese origin (kango), common in technical and formal vocabulary. Its use dates back to ancient documents, but today it is more associated with digital systems and istrative processes. The pronunciation さくじょ (sakujo) follows the on'yomi reading, typical of words derived from Chinese.

Tips for memorizing and using 削除

An effective way to retain 削除 is to associate it with concrete actions. For example, think of a "delete" button in a Japanese app—the word will be there, often in red or with a confirmation notice. Creating flashcards with phrases like "このデータを削除しますか？" (Do you want to delete this data?) also helps internalize its use.

Another tip is to observe the kanji 削 (saku), which appears in words like 削減 (sakugen, "reduction") and 削る (kezuru, "to trim"). Noticing these patterns makes it easier to learn related . On the other hand, 除 (jo) is seen in 解除 (kaijo, "cancellation") and 掃除 (souji, "cleaning"), showing how the radicals repeat in different contexts.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 消去 (Shōkyo) - Complete removal, elimination or deletion of data or information.
• 取り消し (Torikeshi) - Cancellation, annulment or revocation of a previous action.
• 抹消 (Masshō) - Extinction or elimination, often used in legal or formal contexts.
• 割り消し (Warikeshi) - Cancellation of debts or offsets, especially in financial calculations.
• 削り取る (Kazuritoru) - Removal or scraping of a surface, usually involving a physical process.