Translation and Meaning of: 始発 - shihatsu

If you have ever taken a train in Japan or studied transportation schedules, you have probably come across the word 始発 (しはつ - shihatsu). It is essential for anyone wanting to understand how Japanese trains operate, but it also carries interesting cultural and linguistic nuances. In this article, we will explore the meaning of 始発, its origin, how it is used in everyday life, and even tips for memorizing it. All based on reliable sources and real examples, so you can use this word naturally.

What does 始発 mean and when to use it?

始発 consists of two kanjis: 始 (beginning) and 発 (departure). Together, they mean "first departure" or "first train/subway of the day." Unlike 終電 (last train), it exclusively refers to the service that starts the daily operation. If you ask "始発は何時ですか？" (Shihatsu wa nanji desu ka?), you are inquiring about the time of the first train.

It is worth noting that 始発 does not apply to any transportation, but mainly to trains and subways. Night buses or flights, for example, use different . In Japan, knowing the time of the 始発 is crucial for those who work early or need to commute before the morning rush.

The origin and the kanjis of 始発

The combination 始発 appeared during the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan modernized its railway network. The kanji 発 appears in other transportation such as 出発 (shuppatsu - departure) and 発車 (hassha - vehicle departure). Meanwhile, 始 is a radical in words like 開始 (kaishi - beginning) and 終始 (shuushi - from start to finish).

Interestingly, the reading しはつ (shihatsu) is an exception. While 発 alone is read as "hatsu", when combined with 始, the "ha" becomes "wa" due to rendaku (a phonetic change typical in Japanese). This detail helps to distinguish it from words like 出発 (shuppatsu), which do not undergo rendaku.

Tips for memorizing and using 始発 correctly

One practical way to 始発 is to associate it with morning routines. For example: "If I miss the 始発, I’ll be late for work." Another tip is to contrast it with 終電 (last train), as both are often used together in station announcements.

Avoid confusing 始発 with 初電 (はつでん - hatsuden), a less common term that can also mean "first train." The difference is that 始発 is the official term used by railway companies, while 初電 appears more in informal or literary contexts. If in doubt, always opt for 始発.