Translation and Meaning of: 返済 - hensai

The Japanese word 「返済」 (hensai) is composed of two kanji: 「返」 which means "to return" or "to revert," and 「済」 which has the meaning of "to complete" or "to pay." The combination of these characters forms the concept of reimbursement or settlement of a debt. This term is widely used in the financial context to indicate the act of paying back a loan or debt.

The etymology of the kanji 「返」 (hen) is related to the idea of return or reversal. Within its radical, we find elements that symbolize movement back, reinforcing the sense of giving back. The kanji 「済」 (sai) has a radical that suggests the conclusion of a process, reflecting the act of paying or finalizing a financial obligation. Together, these kanji express the practice of settling a debt, bringing an end to a pending obligation.

In the context of Japanese culture and society, honor and financial integrity are deeply rooted values. Thus, the concept of 「返済」 involves not only the financial transaction itself but also the moral and social responsibility to fulfill commitments. The practice of managing personal finances responsibly is seen as a reflection of an individual's character and reputation in Japanese society. In ancient times, local communities relied heavily on mutual trust and social for economic balance, and the act of 「返済」 reinforced that community trust.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 返済 ( hensai ) - Payment of a debt.
• 返還 ( henkan ) - Restitution or return of something to its original state.
• 返却 ( henkyaku ) - Return of a borrowed item.
• 返金 ( henkin ) - Refund of money paid.
• 返戻 ( henbai ) - Return or refund, usually in a formal context.
• 返礼 ( henrei ) - Retribution, usually in the form of a gift.
• 返答 ( hentou ) - Response to a question or request.
• 返信 ( henshin ) - Response, usually in the form of a message or letter.
• 返事 ( henji ) - Response to a communication, it can be oral or written.
• 返済する ( hensai suru ) - Action of paying a debt.
• 返還する ( henkan suru ) - Action of returning something.
• 返却する ( henkyaku suru ) - Action of returning a borrowed object.
• 返金する ( henkin suru ) - Action to refund money.
• 返戻する ( henbai suru ) - Action of returning or giving back something officially.
• 返礼する ( henrei suru ) - Action of reciprocating, usually with a gift.
• 返答する ( hentou suru ) - Action of responding to a question or request.
• 返信する ( henshin suru ) - Action of responding to a message or letter.
• 返事する ( henji suru ) - Action of giving a response in any form.