Translation and Meaning of: 技術 - gijyutsu

The Japanese word 技術[ぎじゅつ] is essential for anyone wishing to understand the world of innovation and development in Japan. If you've ever wondered how the Japanese talk about technology, engineering, or technical skills, this article will clarify everything. We will explore its meaning, origin, everyday use, and even tips for memorizing it efficiently. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide accurate and useful information for students and enthusiasts of the Japanese language.

Meaning and translation of 技術

技術[ぎじゅつ] is translated as "technique," "technology," or "technical skill." It encomes both theoretical knowledge and practical applications in areas such as engineering, computer science, and even manual arts. Unlike words like 科学[かがく] (science), which refers to systematic study, 技術 is more related to the execution and mastery of methods.

A simple example of use is 技術の進歩[ぎじゅつのしんぽ], which means "technological advancement". This word frequently appears in industrial, academic contexts, and even in discussions about everyday innovation. If you study Japanese for technical fields, memorizing 技術 will be especially useful.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The writing of 技術 combines two kanjis: 技[ぎ] (skill, art) and 術[じゅつ] (technique, method). Together, they reinforce the idea of a "skillful method" or "technical art." The first kanji, 技, appears in words like 演技[えんぎ] (performance), while 術 is found in 美術[びじゅつ] (fine arts).

Interestingly, this combination is not old. It emerged during the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japan was undergoing rapid modernization and needed for new areas of knowledge. Before that, technical concepts were described with more generic words or borrowed from Chinese.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In contemporary Japan, 技術 is a high-frequency word, especially in news about industry, robotics, and sustainable development. Companies like Toyota and Sony often highlight their 技術力[ぎじゅつりょく] (technical capacity) as a competitive advantage.

Culturally, the appreciation of technical mastery is part of the concept of ものづくり (monozukuri) (manufacturing culture). Craftsmen, engineers, and even chefs are respected for mastering specific 技術 (gijutsu). This word reflects an important aspect of the Japanese mentality: the pursuit of perfection through technical mastery.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 技能 (Ginou) - Technical skill or competence.
• 技巧 (Gikou) - Technique or method, generally involves skill.
• 技 (Gi) - Art, skill, or technique in general.
• 技術力 (Gijutsuryoku) - Technical capacity, the level of skill in technology.
• 技芸 (Gigei) - Arts or artistic skills, focusing on creative expression.
• 技法 (Gihou) - Method or specific technique applied in a field, often associated with a technical system.
• 技能者 (Ginousha) - Specialist or qualified professional in a specific field.