Translation and Meaning of: 大部分 - daibubun

The Japanese word 大部分[だいぶぶん] is a very useful term for those learning the language, especially for describing significant quantities or proportions. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and everyday usage in Japan, as well as tips for memorizing it efficiently. If you have ever wondered how to express "the majority" or "a large part" in Japanese, this is the right place to find out.

Meaning and translation of 大部分.

Most is composed of the kanjis 大 (big), 部 (part), and 分 (division), forming the sense of "large part" or "majority." It is often used to indicate that something corresponds to a considerable portion of a whole. For example, if someone says "大部分の学生が賛成した" (daibubun no gakusei ga sansei shita), it means that "the majority of students agreed."

It is worth noting that 大部分 does not necessarily refer to something absolute, but rather to a significant proportion within a context. Unlike words such as 全部 (zenbu - all) or 半分 (hanbun - half), it conveys the idea of a substantial amount without being exact.

How and when to use 大部分 in everyday Japanese

This word appears frequently in formal and informal conversations, as well as in written texts. A common usage is in discussions about statistics, opinions, or distributions, such as in "大部分の仕事は終わった" (daibubun no shigoto wa owatta - most of the work is done). It helps to avoid absolute generalizations, maintaining a more balanced tone.

It is important to note that 大部分 is not usually used for negative things in isolation. Phrases like "大部分が失敗した" (daibubun ga shippai shita - most of it failed) can sound very harsh without a context that justifies it. In such situations, Japanese people tend to choose softer or more explanatory expressions.

Tips to memorize and differentiate 大部分

An effective way to memorize this word is to associate its kanjis with mental images. For example, 大 (big) + 部 (section) + 分 (piece) = "big piece of a section." This visual breakdown helps to understand its logical construction. Another tip is to practice with everyday phrases, such as "大部分の時間" (daibubun no jikan - most of the time).

Furthermore, it is worth comparing it with similar , such as 大抵 (taitei - generally) or 大方 (ōkata - largely), which have different nuances. While 大部分 focuses on the concrete proportion, these alternatives carry a more abstract or generalizing tone. Observing these differences prevents confusion in actual usage.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• ほとんど (hotondo) - Almost everything; most of it, usually used to indicate a large quantity, but not total.
• 大半 (taihan) - Majority; the largest part, often used in contexts of groups or quantities.
• 大部 (daibu) - Considerable part; means a significant portion, but with a stronger emphasis on quantity.
• 大部分の (daibun no) - Most of; used to indicate the majority of a specific set.
• 大部分は (daibun wa) - Regarding the majority; an expression that focuses on the context in which the majority is discussed.