Translation and Meaning of: 回転 - kaiten

The Japanese word 回転 [かいてん] is a versatile term frequently used in daily life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the meaning and use of this expression, this article will explore everything you need to know. We will cover everything from the literal translation to practical examples, including tips for memorization and how it appears in Japanese culture. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for those who want to master the language.

Meaning and Translation of 回転

Rotation [かいてん] can be translated as "rotation" or "spin". The term is made up of the kanjis 回 (which means "turn" or "circular") and 転 (which carries the meaning of "change" or "movement"). Together, they form a word that describes the act of something rotating or moving on an axis.

In addition to its physical meaning, 回転 can also be used in more abstract contexts. For example, in economics, it can refer to "inventory turnover," while in sports, it describes the movement of an athlete spinning in the air. This flexibility makes it a useful word in various situations.

Everyday Expressions and Common Phrases

In daily life, the Japanese use 回転 in various expressions. One of the most well-known is 回転寿司 [かいてんずし], which means "conveyor belt sushi" – the kind that moves along conveyor belts in restaurants. Another example is 地球の回転 [ちきゅうのかいてん], which refers to the rotation of the Earth.

If you want to practice, a good sentence to add to Anki is: 「このコマは速く回転しています」 ("This top is spinning fast"). Sentences like this help to reinforce vocabulary in a contextualized way, which is essential for anyone learning Japanese.

Curiosities and Tips for Memorization

An effective way to the meaning of 回転 is to associate the kanji 回 with something that turns, like a carousel. Meanwhile, 転 can be linked to the idea of movement, such as a car in transition. This visual breakdown makes learning easier.

Another interesting fact is that 回転 appears in the names of amusement park attractions, such as 回転木馬 [かいてんもくば] (carousel). If you have ever visited Japan, you may have seen this word on signs or rides, which reinforces its use in everyday life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 回転する (kaiten suru) - Perform a rotational movement.
• 回る (mawaru) - Rotating around a point, moving in a circular manner.
• 回転運動 (kaiten undou) - Rotation movement.
• 回転すること (kaiten suru koto) - The act of rotating.
• 回転軸 (kaiten jiku) - Axis around which rotation occurs.
• 回転速度 (kaiten speed) - Speed at which something spins.
• 回転寿司 (kaiten zushi) - Sushi served on a rotating belt.
• 回転式 (kaiten shiki) - Shape or type that involves rotation.
• 回転体 (kaiten tai) - Body or object that is in rotation.
• 回転力 (kaiten ryoku) - Force that causes rotation.
• 回転運動量 (kaiten undou ryou) - Quantity of rotational motion.
• 回転方向 (kaiten houkou) - Direction of rotation.
• 回転角速度 (kaiten kaku sokudo) - Speed at which an angle is traversed during rotation.
• 回転軸方向 (kaiten jiku houkou) - Direction of the rotation axis.
• 回転運動エネルギー (kaiten undou enerugī) - Energy associated with rotational motion.