Translation and Meaning of: 家事 - kaji

The Japanese word 家事[かじ] is a common term in everyday life in Japan, but it often raises questions among language students. If you have ever wondered what it means, how it is used, or what its origin is, this article will clarify everything in a straightforward and practical way. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to explain not only the translation but also the cultural context and tips to memorize this essential vocabulary.

Meaning and translation of 家事

家事 [かじ] is composed of two kanji: 家 (house) and 事 (matter, task). Together, they form the word that means "household tasks" or "chores." It is a broad term that encomes activities such as cleaning, cooking, doing laundry, and other responsibilities related to the maintenance of a home.

Unlike Portuguese, where we have specific expressions like "faxina" or "serviço doméstico," 家事 is more comprehensive. In Japan, it is often used in everyday contexts, such as "家事をする" (to do housework) or "家事が忙しい" (to be busy with housework).

Origin and Cultural Use

The origin of 家事 dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868), when the organization of domestic life became more structured in Japanese society. The term reflects the importance placed on home maintenance, a value still present in modern Japanese culture.

It is worth noting that, although traditionally associated with women, the concept of 家事 has become more inclusive. Currently, campaigns and discussions about gender equality encourage a balanced division of these tasks among all family .

Tips for memorizing 家事

An effective way to this word is to associate the kanjis that make it up with their meanings. 家 represents "house" and 事 indicates "matters" or "tasks." Together, they form the idea of "household tasks." Creating flashcards with images of household activities can help in the learning process.

Another tip is to practice with simple everyday sentences, like "今日は家事をたくさんした" (Today I did a lot of housework). Repeating it out loud and using it in real contexts helps with memorization.

Frequency and importance in Japanese

家事 is a high-frequency word in the Japanese language, appearing in everyday conversations, TV shows, and even educational materials. Its use is so common that it is considered basic vocabulary for those studying the language.

For those planning to live in Japan or interact with native speakers, mastering this term is essential. It not only facilitates daily communication but also helps to understand important aspects of Japanese culture related to domestic life.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 家庭の仕事 (Katei no shigoto) - Work from home, generally related to specific tasks within the home.
• 家庭労働 (Katei roudou) - Housework, emphasizing the aspect of work and effort made in the family environment.
• 家庭作業 (Katei sagyou) - Household tasks, often referring to manual activities performed at home.
• 家事全般 (Kaji zenpan) - General household responsibilities, covering all tasks related to home management.