Translation and Meaning of: 調整 - chousei

The Japanese word 調整 (ちょうせい, chōsei) is a versatile term often used in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or are curious about the language, understanding its meaning, origin, and applications can be extremely helpful. In this article, we will explore what this word represents, how it is written, in what contexts it appears, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively.

調整 is composed of two kanji: 調 (which means "to adjust" or "to investigate") and 整 ("to organize" or "to arrange"). Together, they form a broad concept that encomes adjustments, regulations, and harmonizations in different situations. Whether in professional, technological, or even personal relationships, this word plays an important role in Japanese communication.

Meaning and use of 調整 in daily life

The main meaning of 調整 is "adjustment" or "regulation." However, its usage goes beyond the literal sense. In the workplace, for example, it can refer to aligning meeting times ("スケジュールを調整する" – adjust the schedule). In technology, it appears in contexts such as calibrating equipment or configuring systems. Even in informal situations, such as adjusting the TV volume, the verb 調整する is applied.

What’s interesting is that, culturally, Japan values harmony and balance, and 調整 reflects this mindset. When a Japanese person says "調整が必要です" (an adjustment is necessary), they are often suggesting a solution that benefits everyone, not just one part. This collaborative aspect makes the word one of the most useful for anyone who wants to communicate naturally in the language.

The origin and structure of the kanjis of 調整

Analyzing the kanjis individually, 調 (chō) has the radical 言 (language), indicating its relation to communication and investigation. Meanwhile, 整 (sei) contains the radical 攵 (the action of striking), associated with organization and order. This combination is not random: it reinforces the idea that adjusting something requires both communication and practical action.

It is worth noting that 調整 is not an ancient word, but its construction follows the classic logic of Japanese, where kanji with complementary meanings come together to form more complex . Unlike many words borrowed from English, it retains a sound and writing that are fully integrated into the Japanese linguistic system.

Tips for memorizing and using 調整 correctly

An effective way to fix 調整 is to associate it with practical situations. For example, think of "adjusting the watch" (時計を調整する) or "fine-tuning details" (詳細を調整する). Repeating phrases like these out loud helps to memorize not only the word but also its application. Another tip is to observe its use in electronics manuals or professional emails, where it appears frequently.

Additionally, pay attention to false cognates. While 調整 can be translated as "control" in some contexts, it does not carry the same sense of "dominion" that the English word "control" may have. In Japanese, the focus is always on the act of balancing or adapting, never on imposing something unilaterally. This nuance is essential to avoid misunderstandings.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 調節 (Chōsetsu) - Adjustment or regulation of something.
• 調整する (Chōsei suru) - Make adjustments or corrections.
• 調整すること (Chōsei suru koto) - The act of making adjustments.
• 調整作業 (Chōsei sagyō) - Work related to adjustments.
• 調整機能 (Chōsei kinō) - Adjustment functionality on a device.
• 調整可能 (Chōsei kanō) - Possibility of making adjustments.
• 調整器 (Chōseiki) - Adjustment device.
• 調整器具 (Chōseiki gu) - Tools used for adjustments.
• 調整器具類 (Chōseiki gurui) - Types of tools for adjustments.
• 調整器具類一式 (Chōseiki gurui isshiki) - Complete set of adjustment tools.
• 調整機 (Chōsei ki) - Machine used to make adjustments.
• 調整機器 (Chōsei kiki) - Equipment intended for adjustments.
• 調整機器類 (Chōsei kiki gurui) - Types of adjustment equipment.
• 調整装置 (Chōsei sōchi) - Adjustment device.
• 調整装置類 (Chōsei sōchi gurui) - Types of adjustment devices.
• 調整用 (Chōsei yō) - Intended for adjustment.
• 調整用具 (Chōsei yōgu) - Tools for adjustment.
• 調整用具類 (Chōsei yōgu gurui) - Types of adjustment tools.