Translation and Meaning of: 同居 - doukyo

The Japanese word 同居[どうきょ] is a term that piques curiosity both for its meaning and its use in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or simply interested in the culture of the country, understanding this expression can open doors to understanding social and family aspects of Japan. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, translation, and how it is perceived in the Japanese language.

In addition, we will see how this word is used in different contexts, from informal conversations to more formal situations. If you are looking for accurate information about 同居[どうきょ], keep reading to discover everything you need to know, including memorization tips and curiosities based on reliable sources.

Meaning and Translation of 同居 [どうきょ]

同居 [どうきょ] is composed of two kanji: 同 (same, equal) and 居 (to reside, to live). Together, they convey the idea of "living together" or "cohabiting." This word is often used to describe situations where two or more people share the same space, whether in a house, apartment, or even in a work environment.

In Portuguese, the closest translation would be "cohabitation" or "living together." However, the term carries cultural nuances that go beyond simple translation. In Japan, 同居 can refer to both couples living together before marriage and family sharing the same roof for generations.

Cultural and Social Use of 同居[どうきょ]

In Japan, cohabitation has different meanings depending on the context. Traditionally, many Japanese families live in multigenerational homes, where grandparents, parents, and children share the same space. In this case, 同居 reflects a common and even valued lifestyle in certain regions.

On the other hand, among younger couples, living together before marriage is still a topic that generates discussions. Although the practice is becoming more accepted, especially in big cities, many more conservative families still view cohabitation with some resistance. This causes the word 同居 to carry both everyday aspects and social debates.

Tips for Memorizing 同居[どうきょ]

An effective way to the meaning of 同居 is to break down the kanjis that form it. The first, 同, appears in words like 同じ (onaji - "same") and 同時 (douji - "at the same time"). The second, 居, is used in like 居間 (ima - "living room") and 居住 (kyojuu - "residence"). Associating these radicals with the concept of "living together" can make memorization easier.

Another tip is to create simple sentences using the word, like 彼と同居しています (Kare to doukyo shite imasu - "I am living with him"). Practicing this type of construction helps to solidify not only the vocabulary but also its application in real situations. If you use apps like Anki, including practical examples can be especially helpful.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 共同生活 (Kyōdō seikatsu) - Shared life, commonly used to describe living together in a group.
• 同棲 (Dōsei) - Coexistence in a romantic relationship generally refers to couples who live together.
• 同居生活 (Dōkyo seikatsu) - Cohabitation refers to living together, which can include not just couples, but also family or friends.
• 同住 (Dōjū) - Living together, a general term that can also refer to people living under the same roof.