Translation and Meaning of: 契約 - keiyaku

The Japanese word 契約[けいやく] is essential for anyone studying the language or interested in Japanese culture. It frequently appears in formal contexts, legal documents, and even in the daily operations of businesses. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is used in the Japanese language, as well as tips for memorizing it efficiently.

If you've ever wondered what 契約 means or how to use it in everyday sentences, this text will help you. Furthermore, we will understand why this word holds such significant weight in Japanese society and how it reflects cultural values. Shall we start?

Meaning and usage of 契約[けいやく]

契約[けいやく] means "contract" or "agreement." It is used to refer to formal documents that establish obligations between parties, such as employment contracts, purchase and sale contracts, or services. In Japan, the word carries a sense of serious commitment, reflecting the importance that the local culture places on one's word.

Unlike in some western countries, where contracts can be seen as mere formalities, in Japan a 契約 is taken very seriously. Breaking it can result in loss of trust and even legal consequences. Therefore, it is common for companies and individuals to thoroughly review the before g.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The word 契約 is formed by two kanjis: 契 (kei), which means "promise" or "pact," and 約 (yaku), which means "agreement" or "commitment." Together, they reinforce the idea of a formal and mutually accepted bond. This combination is not random – it reflects the nature of what a contract represents in Japanese society.

It is interesting to note that the kanji 契 appears in other words related to agreements, such as 契機 (crucial opportunity) and 契印 (contract seal). Similarly, 約 is used in like 約束 (promise) and 予約 (reservation). This relationship between the characters helps to better understand the context in which 契約 is used.

Tips for memorizing 契約[けいやく]

An effective way to memorize 契約 is to associate it with everyday situations. For example, think of a rental contract or a work agreement. Visualizing scenarios where the word would be used helps to fix it in memory. Another tip is to create flashcards with sentences like "この契約に署名します" (I will sign this contract).

Furthermore, paying attention to the radicals of kanjis can facilitate learning. The character 契 contains the radical 大 (big), which can be associated with the importance of a contract. On the other hand, 約 has the radical 糸 (thread), which refers to the idea of something that unites two parts. These visual connections make studying more intuitive.

Cultural usage and importance in Japan

In Japan, 契約 goes beyond the literal meaning of "contract." It represents trust, responsibility, and honor. Japanese companies, for example, often value long-term agreements, where loyalty is as important as the written . This mindset reflects values that are deeply rooted in the country's business culture.

It is worth noting that, even in informal situations, the concept behind 契約 is present. When a Japanese person makes a promise, even if verbal, there is a strong social expectation that it will be fulfilled. This cultural aspect helps to understand why the word carries so much weight in Japanese vocabulary.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 契約書 (Keiyaku-sho) - Formal contract document.
• 合意書 (Goui-sho) - Formal agreement between the parties.
• 契約条項 (Keiyaku-joukou) - Contract clauses.
• 契約内容 (Keiyaku-naigai) - Contract content.
• 契約条件 (Keiyaku-jouken) - and conditions of the contract.
• 契約締結 (Keiyaku-teiketsu) - Formalization of the contract signature.
• 契約成立 (Keiyaku-seiritsu) - Validity of the contract.
• 契約期間 (Keiyaku-kikan) - Duration of the contract.
• 契約更新 (Keiyaku-koushin) - Renewal of the contract.
• 契約解除 (Keiyaku-kaijo) - Contract cancellation.
• 契約違反 (Keiyaku-ihan) - Breach of contract.
• 契約違反者 (Keiyaku-ihansha) - Part that violates the contract.
• 契約違反行為 (Keiyaku-ihan koui) - Breach of contract action.
• 契約違反罰則 (Keiyaku-ihan bassoku) - Penalties for breach of contract.
• 契約違反損害賠償 (Keiyaku-ihan songai baishou) - Compensation for damages due to breach of contract.
• 契約違反訴訟 (Keiyaku-ihan sosho) - Lawsuit for breach of contract.
• 契約交渉 (Keiyaku-koushou) - Contract negotiation.
• 契約交渉中 (Keiyaku-koushou chuu) - Contract negotiation in progress.
• 契約交渉成立 (Keiyaku-koushou seiritsu) - Successful conclusion of the contract negotiation.
• 契約交渉決裂 (Keiyaku-koushou ketsuretsu) - Interruption or failure in the contract negotiation.