Translation and Meaning of: 外相 - gaishou

The Japanese word 外相 (がいしょう, gaishō) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries specific meanings and uses worth exploring. If you are looking to understand its meaning, translation, or how it is used in everyday Japanese, this article will help you. Here, we will uncover everything from the origin of the term to its cultural context, along with practical memorization tips and usage examples. Suki Nihongo, your favorite Japanese dictionary, has gathered everything you need to know about this word.

The term 外相 (がいしょう) means "Foreign Minister" in English.

The word 外相 is composed of two kanji: 外 (outside/exterior) and 相 (aspect/mutuality). Together, they form a term that can be translated as "Minister of Foreign Affairs" in the political context. In Japan, the 外相 is an important figure in the government, responsible for the country's diplomacy and international relations.

Outside of the political scope, 外相 can also be used in more general contexts to refer to the "external appearance" or "superficial aspect" of something, although this usage is less common. It is worth noting that, in daily life, Japanese people tend to use the word specifically to refer to the government position, making it rare to find it in casual conversations.

Origin and historical use of 外相

The origin of the term 外相 is linked to the governmental structure of modern Japan, especially after the Meiji Restoration (1868), when the country underwent significant political reforms. The position of Minister of Foreign Affairs was formalized during this period, adopting the nomenclature we know today.

Interestingly, the kanji 相 has a long history in the Japanese language, often associated with official positions or leadership roles. This explains why it appears in other such as 首相 (しゅしょう, shushō - Prime Minister) and 大相撲 (おおずもう, ōzumō - professional sumo). This connection helps to understand why 外相 was chosen to designate the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

How to memorize 外相?

A useful tip to the meaning of 外相 is to associate the kanjis that make up the word. Think of 外 as "outside" and 相 as "representative". Together, they form "representative of the outside," meaning the minister who deals with external matters of the country. This simple association can make memorization easier.

Another strategy is to pay attention to news about Japanese politics. The term 外相 often appears in headlines related to diplomacy, which can help solidify its meaning through context. If you follow newspapers like NHK or Asahi Shimbun, you will certainly come across this word.

Foreign Minister in Japanese culture and media

The term 外相 is widely used in Japanese media, especially in discussions about international politics. Dramas and films that portray the Japanese government often include characters in the role of 外相, showcasing their negotiations and diplomatic challenges.

Although it is not a commonly used word, its relevance in the political landscape makes it important for those studying Japanese with a focus on news or international relations. If you are interested in this field, it is worth adding 外相 to your active vocabulary.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 外交大臣 (Gaimu Daijin) - Minister of Foreign Affairs; refers to the position in formal contexts.
• 外務大臣 (Gaimu Daijin) - Minister of Foreign Affairs; a term often used in official documents.
• 外務相 (Gaimu-sou) - Minister of Foreign Affairs; a more abbreviated and informal way to refer to the position.