Translation and Meaning of: 百科辞典 - hyakkajiten

The Japanese expression 「百科辞典」 (hyakkajiten) translates to "encyclopedia" in English and encomes a broad and educational concept. The word is composed of three kanji: 「百」 (hyaku), which means "hundred"; 「科」 (ka), which means "branch" or "category"; and 「辞典」 (jiten), which translates to "dictionary" or "book of words." The term, therefore, literally refers to the idea of a compendium that covers a hundred categories or fields of knowledge.

The etymology of 「百科辞典」 reveals an intrinsic logic of the Japanese language that tends to form compound words that directly allude to the function or purpose of the term. In this context, a 「辞典」 is not just a repository of words and their meanings, but also serves as a guide for usage and interpretation across a wide range of areas, hence the combination with 「百」 and 「科」, indicating the multiplicity and variety of the topics covered.

Historically, the notion of gathering knowledge in an organized and accessible form has its roots in China, from where many kanji were originally imported to Japan. As Japanese society evolved, the need to compile and disseminate knowledge for educational purposes became evident, leading to the creation of 「百科辞典」 as a vital tool for education and continuous learning. Unlike a simple manual or glossary, an encyclopedia aims not only to define but to explain, contextualize, and provide a comprehensive view of the topics covered.

In contemporary Japan, 「百科辞典」 has evolved to accommodate new technologies and form digital encyclopedias, further democratizing access to knowledge. Although the printed format is still respected for its tangibility and tradition, digital versions offer multimedia features, real-time updates, and global accessibility. This modern evolution also reflects the adaptability of the Japanese language and culture in integrating tradition and innovation.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 辞書 (jisho) - Dictionary (usually for basic words and definitions)
• 事典 (jiten) - Encyclopedia (focused on broader information and contexts)
• レファレンス (refarensu) - Reference material (when referring to specific sources of consultation)
• リファレンス (rifarensu) - Reference (can refer to sources or ing materials in an academic or technical context)