Translation and Meaning of: 朗読 - roudoku

Etimology of 「朗読」 (Roudoku)

The Japanese word 「朗読」 (rouodoku) is composed of two kanji: 「朗」 and 「読」. The kanji 「朗」 (rou) has the meaning of "clear" or "bright" and can convey a sense of something being luminous or cheerful. On the other hand, the kanji 「読」 (doku) means "to read." Therefore, together, they form the idea of reading aloud in a clear and expressive way, as if illuminating the words for the listeners.

Definition and Usage

The term 「朗読」 refers to the practice of reading aloud, usually with the intention of making the text understandable and meaningful to the listener. It is an activity that can occur in various contexts, such as storytelling, poetry recitals, or even theatrical performances. During a 「朗読」 session, intonation, rhythm, and diction are crucial to convey the emotion and message of the original text.

History and origin

The practice of 「朗読」 has ancient roots in Japanese culture and can be found in traditional and theatrical ceremonies, such as in Noh and Kabuki theater, where vocal performance is a critical part of the experience. Historically, reading aloud also helped disseminate stories and knowledge at times when literacy was not as widespread. Over time, 「朗読」 has become not only an educational tool but also a valued artistic form.

Cultural importance

In contemporary Japan, 「朗読」 continues to play an important role in preserving culture and oral traditions. It is often seen in school competitions, cultural events, and even in television and radio programs where stories and literature are shared with the public. It is also an excellent way to keep alive Japan's rich literary tradition, allowing the nuances of the language to be appreciated in a way that silent reading may not fully capture.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 朗読 (Rōdoku) - Read aloud, especially literary texts.
• 読み上げ (Yomiage) - Reading aloud a text, usually used in more technical contexts.
• 朗々と読む (Rōrō to yomu) - Expressive and clear reading, with an emphasis on eloquence.
• 読み聞かせる (Yomikikaseru) - Reading aloud to another person, usually children, with the aim of entertaining or educating.
• 読むこと (Yomu koto) - Act of reading; it can refer to any type of reading.
• 読み解くこと (Yomitoku koto) - Act of interpreting or understanding a text read.
• 読み取ること (Yomitoru koto) - Act of capturing information or ideas from a text, with a focus on understanding.
• 読み込むこと (Yomikomu koto) - Act of absorbing or integrating information from a text, more profound.
• 読み上げること (Yomiageru koto) - Act of reading aloud, emphasizing the delivery of the text.
• 読みあげること (Yomiageru koto) - A reading aloud act; synonymous with "読み上げること", but it can be more informal.
• 読み誦くこと (Yomishōku koto) - An act of reading aloud with careful and stylized intonation.
• 読み上げ声 (Yomiagego) - Voice used when reading aloud, emphasizing the quality of delivery.
• 読み声 (Yomigoe) - Reading voice; refers to the characteristic of the voice while reading.
• 読みの声 (Yomi no koe) - Specific voice or intonation used when reading.
• 読みの調子 (Yomi no chōshi) - Tone or intonation when reading.
• 読みのテンポ (Yomi no tenpo) - Speed or pace when reading.
• 読みのリズム (Yomi no rizumu) - Rhythm used while reading, focusing on the musicality of the text.
• 読みのアクセント (Yomi no akusento) - Emphasis or accentuation during reading.
• 読みのイントネーション (Yomi no intonēshon) - Intonation during reading is crucial for conveying emotions.
• 読みの抑揚 (Yomi no yokuyō) - Variations in voice pitch while reading.
• 読みの強弱 (Yomi no kyōjaku) - Strength and weakness in reading delivery, important for expressiveness.
• 読みの速 (Yomi no soku) - Reading speed, important for the flow and comprehension of the text.