Translation and Meaning of: 還暦 - kanreki

The Japanese word 還暦 (かんれき, kanreki) carries a deep and culturally relevant meaning in Japan. If you've ever wondered what it represents, how it's used in everyday life, or even its origin, this article will clarify everything. Let's explore from the literal meaning to the context in which the Japanese use this expression, including tips for memorizing it and curiosities that go beyond dictionaries.

The meaning and origin of 還暦

還暦 is a word that symbolizes an important milestone in the lives of Japanese people: the 60th anniversary. Literally, it means "return to the calendar," referring to the sexagenary cycle of the Chinese zodiac, which completes after 60 years. In Japanese tradition, this age is celebrated as a rebirth, marking the beginning of a new phase.

The origin of this celebration dates back to ancient China, where the timekeeping system based on a 60-year cycle was widely used. Japan adopted this tradition, and today, the 還暦 celebration is a special occasion, often marked by the use of red clothing, a color that symbolizes luck and rejuvenation.

How 還暦 is perceived in Japanese culture

In Japan, reaching the age of 60 is seen as an accomplishment worth celebrating. Unlike some Western cultures, where advanced age may be associated with decline, the Japanese view 還暦 as a moment of renewal. Many families organize parties and gift the birthday celebrant with red items, such as coats or scarves, reinforcing the idea of a new beginning.

It is worth noting that, with the increase in life expectancy, the meaning of 還暦 has also evolved. Today, many people at this age remain active in the job market or even start new projects, challenging the traditional notion of "old age."

Tips for memorizing and using 還暦 (kanreki)

If you are learning Japanese, an effective way to 還暦 is to associate it with the kanji 還 (return) and 暦 (calendar). Thinking of the 60-year cycle as a "return to the calendar" helps to understand its logic. Furthermore, ing the color red, so present in celebrations, can be a useful mental trigger.

To practice, how about creating a simple sentence like "祖父の還暦をお祝いします" (I will celebrate my grandfather's 60th birthday)? This kind of contextualization makes it easier to assimilate vocabulary in everyday life.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 還暦 (kanreki) - Celebração de completar 60 anos, geralmente envolvendo costumes tradicionais.
• 60歳 (rokujussai) - Literalmente "60 anos".
• 60才 (rokujussai) - Literalmente "60 anos", usando o kanji para "anos" (才).
• 六十歳 (rokujuussai) - -sixty years of age-
• 六十才 (rokujuusai) - Another formal way to express "60 years old" using the kanji for "years" (才) is "60才".