Translation and Meaning of: 安定 - antei

If you have ever studied Japanese, you have probably come across the word 安定 (あんてい) in contexts ranging from everyday conversations to technical manuals. This expression, which means stability or balance, is essential for understanding not only the language but also cultural and social aspects of Japan. In this article, you will discover the etymology behind the kanjis that constitute it, how it is used in daily life, and even tips for memorizing it effectively. Here on Suki Nihongo, the largest online Japanese dictionary, you will also find practical examples to include in your Anki and boost your studies.

But why is this word so relevant? Besides being frequently searched on Google for its meaning and translation, 安定 appears in discussions about economy, personal relationships, and even in product ments. Whether to describe a stable situation or a balanced emotional state, it carries nuances worth exploring. Shall we dive into the details?

Structure and Origin of Kanjis

The kanji 安 (あん) means "safe" or "cheap," while 定 (てい) represents "to determine" or "to fix." Together, they form the idea of something that is firmly established, without fluctuations. Interestingly, 安 also appears in words like 安心 (anshin – "peace of mind"), reinforcing the notion of comfort that stability provides. On the other hand, 定 is common in like 定番 (teiban – "classic" or "standard"), indicating something consolidated.

The origin of these characters dates back to Ancient China. The pictogram 安 shows a woman under a roof, symbolizing safety. 定, in turn, combines the radical for "house" with a stroke that suggests firmness. When you visualize these elements, it becomes easier to understand why 安定 conveys the feeling of something that does not waver — whether it's a well-assembled piece of furniture or a life without unpleasant surprises.

Everyday Lies and Specific Contexts

In Japan, 安定 is used for both concrete and abstract situations. A public employee might say they chose the job for its 安定した収入 (stable income), while a therapist discusses 精神的な安定 (emotional balance). Companies also love the term: "安定" quality products are those that do not disappoint, like rice that always turns out perfect in the pot.

And it doesn't stop there. If you follow economic news, you will hear about 相場が安定している (the market is stable). Even in relationships, the term comes up — a couple that is "安定している" is one that is not experiencing a crisis. Do you see how the word permeates different spheres? This makes it indispensable for those who want to master Japanese beyond the basics.

Tips for Memorizing and Applying

An infallible technique is to associate 安定 with images from your daily life. Think of that chair that never wobbles or of the coworker who stays calm under pressure. Creating flashcards with sentences like この机は安定している ("This table is stable") helps to fix the meaning. Another strategy is to observe the kanji 安 in other contexts — when you see 安全 (anzen – "safety"), that both share the idea of protection.

How about a pun you'll never forget? Imagine that あんてい sounds like "an-tê" — something like "anchor." Anchors keep ships stable, right? Jokes aside, the truth is that the more you use it, the more natural 安定 becomes. Try to include it in your Japanese diary or when describing your routine. Little by little, it will become part of your active vocabulary.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 安泰 (Antai) - Safety; peace of mind regarding a situation
• 安穏 (An’on) - Peace; serenity; state of calm and stability
• 安堵 (Ando) - Relief; a feeling of comfort after a period of worry
• 安定感 (Andeikan) - Sense of stability; feeling of emotional and physical security
• 安定性 (Andeisei) - Stability; the quality of being stable; resistance to changes
• 安定した (Andeishita) - Stable; something that remains constant without fluctuations
• 安定している (Andeishiteiru) - Stable; current condition of being balanced and secure
• 安定した状態 (Andeishita joutai) - Steady state; a condition that remains unchanged without significant changes.
• 安定した状況 (Andeishita joukyou) - Stable situation; circumstances that appear in a consistent manner
• 安定した経済 (Andeishita keizai) - Stable economy; an economy that does not face major fluctuations.
• 安定した社会 (Andeishita shakai) - Stable society; a community that lives in harmony and security
• 安定した心理状態 (Andeishita shinri joutai) - Stable psychological state; balanced and healthy emotional condition.
• 安定した人生 (Andeishita jinsei) - Stable life; a life that is balanced and secure
• 安定した生活 (Andeishita seikatsu) - Stable daily life; a routine that remains regular and safe.
• 安定した職業 (Andeishita shokugyou) - Stable profession; work that provides long-term security
• 安定した収入 (Andeishita shuunyuu) - Stable income; financial gains that maintain consistency
• 安定した環境 (Andeishita kankyou) - Stable environment; a physical and social space that is safe and harmonious.
• 安定した未来 (Andeishita mirai) - Stable future; a life perspective that promises security
• 安定した展望 (Andeishita tenbou) - Stable perspective; a vision of the future that is secure and promising.
• 安定した成長 (Andeishita seichou) - Stable growth; development that occurs consistently
• 安定した発展 (Andeishita hatten) - Stable development; progress that remains steady and regular
• 安定した事業 (Andeishita jigyou) - Stable enterprise; businesses that operate safely and consistently
• 安定した経営 (Andeishita keiei) - Stable management; business istration that ensures security and continuity.
• 安定した投資 (Andeishita toushi) - Stable investment; a financial option that provides long-term security.
• 安定した利益 (Andeishita rieki) - Stable profit; financial returns that are consistent and secure.
• 安定した利回り (Andeishita rimawari) - Stable return; a return rate that remains constant over time.