Translation and Meaning of: 国連 - kokuren

The Japanese word 国連 (こくれん, kokuren) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important meanings and an interesting historical context. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about the language, understanding like this can enrich your vocabulary and your comprehension of Japanese culture. In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and use of 国連, as well as practical tips for memorizing it.

国連 is a word frequently found in news, political debates, and even in educational materials. Its meaning is directly linked to a globally known international organization. But how did it emerge in the Japanese language? And how do the Japanese use it in their daily lives? Let's answer these and other questions below.

Meaning and Translation of 国連

国連 is the abbreviation for 国際連合 (こくさいれんごう, kokusai rengou), which means "United Nations" (UN). Just like in Portuguese, where we use "UN" instead of the full name, the Japanese often choose 国連 in everyday conversations and formal texts. This abbreviated form is quicker to write and say, while retaining the same meaning.

It is worth noting that 国連 is not a slang or colloquial term, but rather an official and widely accepted abbreviation. It appears in newspapers, political speeches, and official documents, showing that its use is recognized in both formal and informal language. If you are reading an article about international politics in Japanese, it is likely that you will encounter this word several times.

Origin and Use of the Word 国連

The origin of 国連 is directly linked to the formation of the UN after World War II. The Japanese term 国際連合 was created as a direct translation of the English "United Nations," and the abbreviation 国連 emerged as a practical way of reference. This type of shortening is common in Japanese, as well as in other languages.

An interesting fact is that 国連 is a perfect example of how Japanese adapts international . While some languages maintain acronyms based on English (like "UN" or "ONU"), Japanese created its own version using kanji. This reflects a characteristic of the language: even when absorbing foreign concepts, it shapes them in a unique way, integrating them into its writing and pronunciation system.

How to Memorize 国連

For those learning Japanese, memorizing 国連 can be easier than it seems. A useful tip is to break down the kanji: 国 (koku) means "country" or "nation," and 連 (ren) can be translated as "link" or "association." Together, they form the idea of "united nations," which helps to reinforce the meaning.

Another strategy is to associate the word with real contexts. Since 国連 often appears in the news, following Japanese news portals or watching videos about international politics can enhance your learning. Hearing the pronunciation "kokuren" several times in reports also helps to memorize the word naturally.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 国際連合 (Kokusai Rengō) - International organization formed by sovereign states, known by the acronym UN (United Nations).
• UN (Iuni) - Abbreviation used in English for "United Nations," referring to the same institution as the 国際連合.