Translation and Meaning of: 完了 - kanryou

If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, you may have come across the word 完了[かんりょう]. It appears in formal contexts, in the workplace, and even in animes, but do you really know what it means and how to use it correctly? In this article, we will explore the meaning, origin, and practical applications of this expression, as well as tips for memorizing it once and for all. Here at Suki Nihongo, our detailed dictionary helps you master like this effortlessly.

What does 完了[かんりょう] mean?

The word 完了 is formed by the kanjis 完 (perfection, conclusion) and 了 (completion), and its main meaning is "conclusion" or "termination." Unlike more informal like 終わり, it carries a more formal tone, indicating that something has been fully completed, without any pending issues. For example, in corporate environments, it is common to hear phrases like プロジェクトが完了しました (The project has been completed).

It is worth noting that 完了 is not limited to tasks. It can also be used for processes, such as the completion of an installation or the finalization of a document. This versatility makes it a common word in technical manuals and official notices.

Origin and structure of kanjis

The etymology of 完了 traces back to Classical Chinese, where the kanjis 完 and 了 were already used to convey the idea of something complete or finalized. The first, 完, combines the radicals for "roof" (宀) and "money" (元), suggesting something "protected and intact." Meanwhile, 了 represents a man with open arms, symbolizing "closure." Together, they reinforce the notion of total conclusion.

Interestingly, 了 also appears in words like 了解 (understanding), but in 完了 its role is purely temporal. This duality is an example of how kanji can have different nuances depending on the context.

How to use 完了 in daily life

In everyday Japanese, 完了 is more common in structured situations. If you are learning the language, you can use it to talk about household tasks (e.g.: 掃除が完了した - The cleaning is complete) or studies (e.g.: レポートを完了させた - I finished the report). However, avoid using it in casual conversations — for that, prefer 終わった.

A valuable tip is to associate 完了 with notification sounds. Many Japanese apps, such as delivery or banking systems, use this word in alerts like 処理完了 (processing completed). Train your ear by paying attention to these details.

Culturally, how do the Japanese view 完了?

In Japan, the idea of "completing something fully" is linked to values such as 責任 (responsibility) and 徹底性 (thoroughness). Therefore, 完了 carries a positive weight, indicating that a task has been done with excellence. In companies, it is common to celebrate milestones with expressions like 無事完了 (trouble-free completion).

On the other hand, in creative contexts such as art or writing, the term may be used less frequently. Artists often avoid declaring their works as "finished," preferring concepts like 途中 (in progress). This nuance reflects the Japanese view on continuous processes.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 完了 (Kanryou) - Conclusion or finalization of a process.
• 終了 (Shuuryou) - End of something, possibly implying a disruption or conclusion.
• 完成 (Kansei) - Completion, emphasizing the idea of a job successfully finished.
• 完結 (Kanketsu) - Closure of a story or sequence, often used in narratives.
• 終わりました (Owarimashita) - Indication that something has been completed, in a verbal context.